Numerical study of dynamic behavior of beryllium pebble under perturbation of electromagnetic field in fusion blanket

•Electromagnetic perturbations in mono-, bi-, and tri-sized beryllium pebble beds were simulated.•Significant fluctuations in average contact forces during perturbations were observed.•The change pattern in average coordination number was compared across three types of beds.•The maximum force persisted even after the perturbation was removed. The fusion blanket system is a core component of fusion reactors, however the operational environment of it is notably harsh, characterized by strong magnetic fields, high heat fluxes, and intense radiation exposure. It is subjected to considerable thermal, mechanical, and electromagnetic stresses, particularly during plasma transient events. Consequently, an in-depth investigation into the safety of the blanket system under electromagnetic stress conditions is imperative. The present study focuses on a solid blanket configuration featuring a beryllium pebble bed. The study explores the dynamics of particle systems influenced by magnetic forces, formulates a comprehensive mathematical and physical model for particle systems within magnetic fields, constructs a pebble bed for particles under magnetic conditions, and scrutinizes the fundamental behavior of the beryllium pebble bed in the face of magnetic perturbations. This research contributes essential parameters and data pertinent to the design of the pebble bed in fusion devices.