The compaction of aggregates of non-spherical linear viscous particles Original Research Article

An approximate discrete-element model is used to study the compaction of aggregates of non-spherical, linear viscous particles. The numerical model is developed in which each particle is treated individually, with the appropriate constitutive relations, kinematic conditions, contact constraints, and elimination of overlap satisfied for every particle in the aggregate. Mesh update algorithms are generated based on mixed triangular and quadrilateral element system. The algorithms are used to detect contact, generate mesh, modify concave elements and prevent locking. The method could be used in a variety of problems that can be represented using granular media, such as asphalt, polymers, aluminum, snow, food product and others. A series of numerical simulations are shown to demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the model.