Numerical rheometry of bulk materials using a power law fluid and the lattice Boltzmann method - Roger Owen (Journal of Non-Newtonian Fluid Mechanics, 2011)
The paper provides an original computational framework for coupled problems involving the transient behaviour of discrete element particles embedded within a non-Newtonian fluid domain. Although the formulation and implementation is general, the non-Newtonian fluid is specifically employed to represent the response of fine particle materials (e.g. sand) and hence to provide a multi-scale model of granular systems involving widely disparate particle dimensions. The methodology has been employed to address the migration of fine particles within mined ore bodies in block caving operations on behalf of Rio Tinto (j.rance@rockfield.co.uk).