Multiphysical modeling of third-body rheology

As the rheology of the third body does not only depend on its mechanical properties, classical discrete element simulations are not capable of modeling its flows. Consequently to take into account the third body's mechanical, thermal and physicochemical properties, an extended discrete element approach is proposed and applied to the simulation of third-body flows. Each extension of the standard DEM model is compared to experimental results. The extended model's efficiency is demonstrated by using an arbitrary physicochemical law that simulates different types of behavior observed experimentally.

Research highlights► We define a generic multi-physical framework which could be used for any discrete element method. ► Thermal effects and physicochemical effects are taken into account. ► The numerical model is validated using experimental results. ► The model is used to simulate the behavior of a contact interface. ► With a set of parameter a thermal accommodation process is reproduced.