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Discrete element and homogenization based approaches for determining the mechanical properties of geomaterials

Geer, Stephen R.
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Abstract
This dissertation presents research involving a comparison of two specific methods used to determine the mechanical properties of geomaterials: Homogenization and the Discrete Element Method (DEM). Each method is described in individual chapters with corresponding introductions, literature reviews, governing equations and calculations, and examples of the use of the methods in question. The homogenization techniques used in this research utilize the Eshelby equivalent inclusion approach in order to approximate the effects on the effective properties of heterogeneous materials due to the presence of heterogeneities. Among the many homogenization techniques that are based on the use of equivalent inclusions, three are discussed in this research: the Dilute Estimate, the Self-Consistent Method, and the Polycrystal Self-Consistent Method; all three techniques are used to find the effective properties of geomaterials using images of geomaterial samples generated through scanning electron microscopy. The same geomaterial images analyzed using the three homogenization techniques are used to generate DEM particle systems. The DEM systems are subjected to mechanical stimuli and the resultant particle displacements are used to estimate strain, and by extension, effective elastic properties. The results of the homogenization and DEM analyses of the geomaterial images are compared, and the pros and cons of both methods are discussed.
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