Discrete element method

Discrete element methods (DEM) comprise a family of related mathematical tools for determining the kinematic behavior of finite-sized particles. As defined by Cundall, discrete element methods allow:

1. finite displacement, rotation and separation of elements, and
   
2. new particle contacts are recognized algorithmically as the simulation proceeds.

Two prominent members of the DEM family are the distinct element method proposed by Cundall in 1971, and the discontinuous deformation analysis (DDA) proposed by Shi in 1988.

Bibliography

• P.A. Cundall, O.D.L. Strack: A distinct element model for granular assemblies. Geotechnique, 29:47,65, 1979.
• Griebel, Knapek, Zumbusch, Caglar: Numerische Simulation in der Molekulardynamik. Springer, 2004. ISBN 3-540-41856-3
• Nenad Bicanic: Discrete Element Methods in Stein, de Borst, Hughes Encyclopedia of Computational Mechanics, Vol. 1. Wiley, 2004. ISBN 0-470-84699-2
• Shi, G (1989). Discontinuous deformation analysis - A new numerical model for the statics and dynamics of deformable block structures. In 1st U.S. Conf. on Discrete Element Methods, Golden. CSM Press: Golden, CO, 16pp.
• Kawaguchi, T., Tanaka, T. and Tsuji, Y., "Numerical simulation of two-dimensional fluidized beds using the discrete element method (comparison between the two- and three-dimensional models)," Powder Technology, Vol. 96, No. 2 (1998), pp. 129-138.
• itasca DEM pubs.html

Software

• BALL & TRUBAL [1979-1980) distinct element method (fortran code)
• EDEM (DEM Solutions Ltd.)
• PFC2D and PFC3D (Particle Flow Code in 2 Dimensions; Particle Flow Code in 3 Dimensions)