DEM simulation of planar sliding using a particulate interface model considering velocity-dependent friction

Planar sliding is a typical failure mode of landslides, in which an unstable rock block slides along a weak plane, resulting in a rapid movement. This study proposes a particulate interface model (PIM) that considers velocity-dependent friction behavior to simulate the planar sliding behavior of the particulate DEM. To validate the performance of the proposed model, the results of a DEM simulation of the planar sliding of a rigid block are compared with the analytical dynamic solution. The results reveal that the PIM simulation is consistent with the analytical dynamic solution with or without consideration of the velocity-dependent friction law. The ordinary contact model does not accurately reflect the theoretical dynamics owing to the high resistance. The smooth-joint model underestimated the shear resisting force of the interface and yielded excessively high velocity and displacement of the block. With respect to the deposition distribution, the different interface models yielded the various velocities before impact, and therefore various failure patterns of the block and appearances of the deposition. The block velocity significantly influences the number of cracks. The results of the analysis reveal that the PIM can capture the planar sliding and deposition behavior of particulate DEM.