Discrete element modelling of impact attritions of agglomerates of autoadhesive elastoplastic particles

In this paper, discrete element modelling of agglomerate impact has been conducted by adopting the theory of contact mechanics for elastoplastic auto-adhesive particles. Results show that, under the same conditions other than the predefined yield pressure, the elasto-plastic agglomerate tends to disintegrate during impact in contrast to the elastic agglomerate which has fractured in terms of breakage pattern. Due to the presence of plastic deformation and additional kinetic energy loss, the elastoplastic agglomerate during impact needs longer loading period than the elastic agglomerate, and generates larger peak wall force and greater internal damage. It was also observed that the amplitude of wall forces during loading is relatively smaller than the corresponding elastic agglomerate. However, during unloading, the remaining kinetic energy become less.