DEM modelling of particle fragmentation during compaction of particles

This work presented a numerical study based on the discrete element method (DEM) to understand the effect of particle fragmentation on compaction dynamics and the properties of formed compacts. An improved fragmentation model based on the force criterion and the Apollonian fragments replacement was implemented to the model to mimic particle breakage. Through growth and relaxation of progeny particles, the fragmentation model was able to significantly reduce mass loss during particle fragmentation while maintain the mechanical response of the parent particles. The model was validated by comparing with literature data in terms of compaction curve and the evolution of particle size distribution (PSD). Three stages were identified in the Hecker plot highlighting the strong effect of particle fragmentation. The effect of compact height was investigated, showing particle fragmentation decreased with increasing compact height at the early stage of compaction due to the larger degree of particle rearrangement, but the final PSD was similar for all the compacts. Analysis indicated particle fragmentation energy accounted for 2% of the total input energy while more than 50% of input energy was to overcome the friction between particles.