Computer simulation of arbitrary-shaped grains and application to aggregate packing in concrete

Title: Computer simulation of arbitrary-shaped grains and application to aggregate packing in concrete
Author(s): H. He, Z. Guo, W. Yang, M. Stroeven, P. Stroeven, L.J. Sluys
Paper category : conference
Book title: International RILEM Symposium on Concrete Modelling - ConMod '08
Editor(s): E. Schlangen and G. De Schutter
Print-ISBN: 978-2-35158-060-8
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-076-9
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2008
Pages: 479 - 486
Total Pages: 8
Nb references: 29
Language: English

Abstract: Aggregate occupies at least three-quarters of the volume of concrete, so its impact on concrete’s properties is large. The sieve curve traditionally defines the aggregate size range.
Another essential property is grain shape. Both, size and shape influence workability as well as mechanical properties of the concrete.
The definition of the actual grain shape as well as the representation in a discrete element simulation (DES) approach is complicated, however. The real shape of aggregate or binder particles can vary widely. Sphericity is therefore generally adopted in conventional simulation systems, despite imposing serious limitations.
In this paper, a simulation strategy is presented for the representation of arbitrary-shaped aggregate grains applied in concrete technology. This simulation approach is also incorporated in a physical concurrent algorithm-based DES system with the acronym HADES. Furthermore, a method has been developed for assessment of properties pertaining to arbitrary shaped particles, such as mass, centre of mass, and moment of inertia. This is crucial information for arbitrary-shaped grain packing systems produced by a DES method.
Dense random packing with mono-size particles is revealed as an application example in this paper. The influence of shape on packing density is also briefly discussed.

Online publication: 2009-06-15
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros): 0.00