Research Planning Grant: To Develop a Numerical Sandbox: Distinct Element Models for Submarine Critical Coulomb Wedges

这项研究规划补助金将探索使用离散元法（DEM）模拟加积和伸展沉积楔的变形，以类似于实验沙箱模型的方式。 在DEM模拟中，每个粒子都被独立处理，并根据物理定律与所有其他粒子相互作用;因此可以直接获得颗粒系统的整体行为。 颗粒和系统的物理和机械性质可以以模拟沙箱模型不可能的方式进行测量和修改。 PI将修改现有的代码，以允许用户与模型进行图形化交互，然后将应用该模型来检查库仑楔中广泛使用的临界锥度理论。

This Research Planning Grant will explore the use of the Discrete Element Method (DEM) in simulating deformation of accretionary and extensional sediment wedges, in a manner analogous to that of experimental sandbox models. In DEM simulations, each particle is treated independently and interacts with all other particles according to the laws of physics; the bulk behaviour of the granular system therefore is obtained directly. Physical and mechanical properties of the particles and the system can be measured and modified in ways not possible for analog sandbox models. The PI will modify existing code to permit the user to interact with the model graphically, and will then apply the model to examine the widely-used theory of critical taper in Coulomb wedges.