Journal Publications

Journal:Journal of Rock Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering

Key Words:Debris flow; Large boulders; Smooth particle hydrodynamics (SPH); Discrete element method (DEM); Multi-phase; Resolved coupling

Abstract:Stony debris flows, characterized by coarse boulders embedded in a sediment-laden matrix, greatly amplify destructive potential by altering flow dynamics and impact forces. Conventional single- phase particle-fluid mixture models often struggle to capture the complexities introduced by coarse boulders and multi-phase interactions, while strong-coupling methods can be computationally prohibitive for practical hazard assessments. Herein, we propose a semi-hybrid, fully resolved coupling numerical framework for modeling boulder-laden debris flows. This framework conceptualizes debris flows as a composite system comprising a continuous viscous fluid phase (including fine sediments) and a discrete phase of arbitrarily shaped coarse particles. The continuous phase is treated as a generalized nonlinear Coulomb-viscoplastic fluid using the Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) method, while coarse particles are modeled via the Distributed Contact Discrete 8 Element Method (DCDEM). These two phases are coupled through an efficient two-way resolved scheme, ensuring accurate simulation of flow-boulder interactions within a unified timeframe. We validate the proposed method against two physical experiments: (1) gravity-driven concrete flows and (2) debris flow interacting with slit-type barriers. Results confirm the method’s robustness in accurately capturing fluid-solid-structure interactions and deposition processes. Its capabilities are further showcased through the simulation of a stony debris-flow event in Wenchuan County, China, highlighting its promise for real-world engineering applications and validating the effectiveness of the existing cascade dam system in mitigating debris-flow impact and energy dissipation.

Note:中科院1区、TOP

Co-author:(中科院一区、TOP期刊) Ma Yangfan, Asai Mitsuteru (Corresponding author), Su Bin (Corresponding author), Han Zheng, Li Changze, Chen Guangqi

Indexed by:Journal paper

Volume:18

Issue:9

Translation or Not:no

Date of Publication:2025-06-10

Included Journals:SCI