DEM investigation on flow instability of particulate assemblies under coupling between volumetric and axial strains

Abstract

The discrete element method (DEM) is employed to investigate the impact of coupling between volumetric and axial strains on the flow liquefaction vulnerability of 3D cubic particulate specimens. The virtual testing program conducted here encompasses a wide range of initial states and varying degrees of coupling between volumetric and axial strains. Utilizing data obtained from DEM simulations, the evolution of micro- and macroscale variables, including coordination number, contact fabric anisotropy, redundancy index, strong force networks, invariants of the effective stress tensor, and excess pore-water pressure, is examined. Results from DEM tests indicate that coupling expansive volumetric strain with axial strain leads to a gradual loosening of the load bearing microstructure, a decrease in coordination number, and a faster change in contact anisotropy. DEM simulations demonstrate that the triggering of flow liquefaction instability is followed by a sudden increase in contact fabric anisotropy and abrupt drops in coordination number and redundancy index. Moreover, a detailed analysis of the findings suggests that the stress ratio at the onset of post-peak softening decreases with increasing expansive volumetric strains.