Finite Element Method Simulation of Wet Granule Compression

Abstract

Wet granules are used in various areas, owing to their higher compressibility. In this study, finite element method (FEM) simulations of wet granule compression are performed to discuss the influence of binder on the compressibility of wet granules. The Drucker-Prager Cap model was applied to wet granules with parameters obtained from compression and powder shear tests, and the FEM simulation was performed using these parameters. The results showed that the axial stress at the bottom surface and the radial stress of the wall obtained from the FEM simulation were consistent with the experimental values for the bottom and radial (wall) stress of the compression cell in large strain regions. Furthermore, the FEM results for wet granules with different amounts of binder suggested that particles in wet granules with higher amounts of binder adhered each other more strongly, thereby increasing the axial and radial stresses.