New Discrete Element Models for Three-Dimensional Impact Problems

Two 3-D numerical models of the discrete element method (DEM) for impact problems are proposed. The models can calculate not only the impact problems of continuum and non-continuum, but also the transient process from continuum to non-continuum. The stress wave propagation in a concrete block and a dynamic splitting process of a marble disc under impact loading are numerically simulated with the proposed models. By comparing the numerical results with the corresponding results obtained by the finite element method (FEM) and the experiments, it is proved that the models are reliable for three-dimensional impact problems.