A continuum approach for the dynamic simulation of powder-like materials

Powders are interesting and challenging materials for many engineers and scientists, since they often show unpredictable behaviour which is quite different from the behaviour of gases, liquids or solids. Our study is driven by the desire to appropriately grasp the damping and energy absorbing behavior of dense, dry powder under impact loading. The overall approach that we developed for this purpose is presented. Applicability to quasi-static as weIl as highly transient real world problems and robustness were crucial constraints for the whole undertaking. These requirements were among others met through a model with relatively few and, more important, easy-to-obtain material parameters and through some algorithmic modifications. After a general introduction to powder, the continuum model based on finite strain elasto-plasticity for the simulation of quasi-static and transient dynamic processes is presented. Then the required return mapping algorithm formulated in principal stresses is presented. Finally, the parameter determination from standard laboratory tests is described and appropriate numerical results are shown.     «

Powders are interesting and challenging materials for many engineers and scientists, since they often show unpredictable behaviour which is quite different from the behaviour of gases, liquids or solids. Our study is driven by the desire to appropriately grasp the damping and energy absorbing behavior of dense, dry powder under impact loading. The overall approach that we developed for this purpose is presented. Applicability to quasi-static as weIl as highly transient real world problems and ro...     »