DEM validation using an annular shear cell

The discrete element method (DEM) is often used as the gold standard both for modeling and predicting the flow behavior of granular material flows, yet much of the validation of this technique has been largely indirect and qualitative. In this paper, we outline new work on quantitative validation of DEM simulations using detailed measurements of simple, well-characterized flows in an annular shear cell. Experimentally, we use digital particle tracking velocimetry (DPTV) to obtain velocity, solids fraction, and granular temperature profiles. Computationally, we compare the results obtained using different contact mechanics force laws. We find that the spring-dashpot model is the most accurate when polymeric beads are used in the experiments.