Finite element simulation of the normal interaction of particles in the visco-elastic solid

Abstract

This paper addresses the 3D FE simulation of the normal interaction of stiff but deformable particles in binder matrix on the meso-scale. The particles are assumed to be elastic spheres while matrix is considered as viscoela-stic solid. The investigation is aimed to capture interaction in terms of normal forces under tension. The problem is considered by applying geometrically linear and nonlinear approaches. Results illustrate influence of initial inter-particle gap reduction of which yields significant increase of the interaction force. Comparison between purely elastic and viscoelastic solutions is also presented.