Abstract:The discrete element method (DEM) can effectively simulate the discontinuity and large-deformation failure processes in geotechnical materials, holding broad application prospects in the engineering field. However, the DEM faces three major challenges in engineering applications: great difficulty in accurate modeling, incomplete multi-field coupling theory, and low computational efficiency. To address these issues, the domestically developed high-performance discrete element software, MatDEM, has achieved the following innovative breakthroughs. Based on cross-scale modeling methods and DEM macro-micro conversion formulas for geotechnical materials, an au-tomatic training technology for discrete element materials is developed, significantly reducing the complexity of accurate modeling. A discrete element pore density flow method is proposed, enabling integrated numerical simulations of multi-field, fluid-solid coupling, and solute transport. By adopting an original matrix-based discrete element algorithm, it efficiently handles large-scale numerical simula-tions involving millions of particles. Currently, MatDEM integrates core functions such as pre-processing, solving, post-processing, and extension modules, forming a complete software ecosystem. After more than a decade of continuous development and optimization, the software has been successfully applied in fields such as geological disasters, geotechnical engineering, mining engineering, and oil and gas extraction. In the future, by further enhancing the adaptability of the software to engineering scenarios, MatDEM will provide strong technical support for disaster prevention, mitigation, and engineering design in China.
