The study on flow properties of nonconvex particles down a rough inclined plane

Abstract

This study numerically examines the flow of nonspherical particles down a rough inclined plane based on the discrete element method. We use triangular, nonconvex particles to systematically explore the effect of their nonconvexity on the flow properties while weakening the impact of their orientation such that the degree of nonconvexity can be accurately varied. We first present a phase diagram of flow states in the parameter space of the angle of inclination and particle nonconvexity. The flow properties of nonconvex particles, especially the profiles of several characteristic quantities along the vertical direction of flow, are then examined in the steady flow regime. Finally, rheological models of the steady flow of nonconvex particles down a rough inclined plane are formulated based on the well-established laws of friction and dilatancy for spheres/disks, and particle nonconvexity is introduced to them as an independent parameter based on two rescaling functions. This proposed method to construct rheological models of nonspherical particles is expected to be applicable to dense flows of particles with more complex shapes and flow conditions.