A partitioned scheme for coupling of FEM and DEM simulations of granular materials

Abstract

In this contribution, a simple uniaxial compaction of granular materials is considered in preparation for studying the collision behavior of double-hull vessels filled with granular materials. The top compressing plate is deformable and modeled by the finite element method (FEM). The particles modeled using the discrete element method (DEM) are compressed by the top plate. To this end, a partitioned technique to couple the continuum approach (FEM) and particle discretization (DEM) is presented. Full agreement of the computed reaction force in DEM with the pressure applied on the top plate in FEM implies accuracy of the used coupling technique.