Hybrid continuum-discrete simulation of granular impact dynamics

TL;DR

This paper presents a hybrid continuum-discrete simulation method for granular impact dynamics, combining material-point and discrete-element techniques to improve computational efficiency and accuracy in modeling complex solid-granular interactions.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel MP-DEM based hybrid approach with new algorithms for contact, large deformation, and phase change, enhancing simulation of granular impacts.

Findings

Accurately reproduces impact forces, intrusion depths, and splash patterns.

Validates the method against laboratory experiments.

Identifies key parameters influencing simulation success.

Abstract

Granular impact -- the dynamic intrusion of solid objects into granular media -- is widespread across scientific and engineering applications including geotechnics. Existing approaches for simulating granular impact dynamics have relied on either a pure discrete method or a pure continuum method. Neither of these methods, however, is deemed optimal from the computational perspective. Here, we introduce a hybrid continuum-discrete approach, built on the coupled material-point and discrete-element method (MP-DEM), for simulating granular impact dynamics with unparalleled efficiency. To accommodate highly complex solid-granular interactions, we enhance the existing MP-DEM formulation with three new ingredients: (i) a robust contact algorithm that couples the continuum and discrete parts without any interpenetration under extreme impact loads, (ii) large deformation kinematics employing multiplicative elastoplasticity, and (iii) a trans-phase constitutive relation capturing gasification of granular media. For validation, we also generate experimental data through laboratory measurement of the impact dynamics of solid spheres dropped onto dry sand. Simulation of the experiments shows that the proposed approach can well reproduce granular impact dynamics in terms of impact forces, intrusion depths, and splash patterns. Further, through parameter studies on material properties, model formulations, and numerical schemes, we identify key factors for successful continuum-discrete simulation of granular impact dynamics.