Simulating mixing processes of cementitious materials with water using DEM

Author(s): Knut Krenzer, Ulrich Palzer and Viktor Mechtcherine
Paper category: Proceedings of the International RILEM Conference Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering 2016 Segment on Fresh Concrete
Editor(s): Lars N. Thrane, Claus Pade, Oldrich Svec and Nicolas Roussel
ISBN: 978-2-35158-184-1
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-185-8
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2016
Pages: 206-217
Total Pages: 12
Language : English

Abstract: This paper introduces a model for the use in the framework of the Discrete Element Method to simulate the mixing processes of cementitious materials with water. The presented model covers the representation of liquid transfer from fluid particles or moist solid particles to dryer solid ones including volume adaption. The parameters of interaction between two particles are defined locally and depend on the moisture amount in the contact area and on the properties of the liquid phase. During the mixing process different simulation contact models control the material behavior. While on the initial stage the friction forces dominate, later on, with the introduction of water into the system, liquid bridge forces change the moving regime of solid particles and finally the material as whole switches in its behaviour to a suspension and the Bingham model can be applied. The cement-based materials are thereby represented by two-layered particles with an inner solid core and an outer liquid film. The simulation model enables a good estimation of the moisture distribution during wet mixing processes with cementitious materials.

Online publication : 2016
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00