Discrete Element Modelling in Geological Materials

Discrete Element Modelling (DEM) has emerged as a powerful computational framework for representing geological materials as assemblies of discrete particles or blocks, capturing the initiation and evolution of fractures, the influence of heterogeneity and the interactions of structural features under mechanical loading. By assigning contact laws and bond models between particles, DEM bridges the microscale processes—such as grain‐to‐grain contacts, bond breakage and crack coalescence—and the macroscale responses observed in rock masses, soils and weakly consolidated sediments. This approach enables researchers to explore the mechanics of failure in slopes, tunnels and reservoirs, to assess seismic or excavation‐induced hazards, and to design ground‐support systems. Recent advances have focused on improving the fidelity of interparticle force laws, on calibrating microparameters against laboratory measurements, and on coupling with fluid flow and thermal processes. The result is a versatile toolset for analysing resource extraction, civil infrastructure stability and geoenergy applications on a global scale.

Research from Nature Portfolio

A recent comprehensive review has synthesised the governing equations and failure criteria of DEM under quasi-static elastic deformation, emphasising the challenges of directly obtaining microscopic parameters from experimental data. It outlines classical calibration strategies, such as inverse optimisation and sensitivity analysis, and demonstrates the importance of maintaining geometric similarity—particle size distribution, porosity and size ratio—between calibration models and field applications. The review also evaluates the applicability of calibrated parameters across different loading regimes, highlighting routes to reduce uncertainty in predicting both elastic responses and the onset of failure in geological media.

Discrete Element Modelling in Geological Materials publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in discrete element modelling in geological materials across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Discrete Element Method (DEM): Numerical approach modelling assemblies of discrete particles to simulate the mechanical behaviour of granular or fractured materials.

Parallel Bond Model: A DEM contact law incorporating both normal and shear stiffness and strength to represent cementation or bonding between particles.

Microparameters: Input values at the particle or bond scale governing stiffness, strength and frictional properties in a discrete element simulation.

Macroparameters: Bulk mechanical properties—such as Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio and uniaxial compressive strength—derived from physical experiments or averaged numerical responses.

Response Surface Method: A statistical technique for developing an approximate mathematical model relating input parameters to system responses, aiding optimisation and calibration.

References

1. Rock Macro–Meso Parameter Calibration and Optimization Based on Improved BP Algorithm and Response Surface Method in PFC 3D. Energies (2022).
2. Numerical Simulation of Failure Behavior of Brittle Heterogeneous Rock under Uniaxial Compression Test. Materials (2022).
3. Review of calibration strategies for discrete element model in quasi-static elastic deformation. Scientific Reports (2023).