3D DEM contact modeling of self-compacting mortar with the consideration of the engaging factor

An engaging factor,fe,was developed to quantitatively simulate the friction behavior of self-compacting mortar(SCM) with the 3D discrete element method(DEM) by modifying the DEM contact model for the mortar.When calculating the contact force between elements,each force acting in the opposite direction to the relative velocity is multiplied by the engaging factor to calculate the resultant force.This DEM model can accurately simulate the shear performance of mortar elements by using this engaging factor.The shear resistance force between elements is then reduced by up to 85%.Comparisons with experimental data for the friction behavior of self-compacting mortar show that the mortar friction behavior can be successfully simulated by an appropriate engaging factor and contact parameters.