The feasibility of modelling rocks in engineering applications with the use of discrete element method

Abstract

This paper represents the motivation behind modelling rocks and the technique. Several possible agricultural engineering and other applications are introduced. The need for tracing each grain makes the discrete element method (DEM) ideal for the task. There are several types of rock aggregates, which need different models and parameter sets. Grains were represented with clumps and crushed rocks were approximated with convex polyhedral particles. The behaviours of the models were tested in simulations.