Matrix Discrete Element Analysis of Geological and Geotechnical Engineering

This book introduces the basic structure, modeling methods, numerical calculation processes, post-processing, and system functions of MatDEM, which applies the basic principles and algorithm of the discrete element method. The discrete element method can effectively simulate the discontinuity, inhomogeneity, and large deformation damage of rock and soil. It is widely used in both research and industry. Based on the innovative matrix discrete element computing method, the author developed the high-performance discrete element software MatDEM from scratch, which can handle millions of elements in discrete element numerical simulations. This book also presents several examples of applications in geological and geotechnical engineering, including basic geotechnical engineering problems, discrete element tests, three dimensional landslides, and dynamic and multi-field coupling functions. Teaching videos and the relevant software can be accessed on the MATDEM website (http://matdem.com).

The book serves as a useful reference for research and engineering staff, undergraduates, and postgraduates who work in the fields of geology, geotechnical, water conservancy, civil engineering, mining, and physics.


Doctor Chun Liu graduated from Nanjing University in 2012, and received the 'Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Award of Jiangsu Province' in 2013. After the postdoctoral research at Stanford University, he joined Nanjing University as Associate Professor in 2014. Since 2019, he served as the Vice President of the Institute of Earth Exploration and Sensing of Nanjing University; and the Deputy Director of the Youth Committee of Chinese Society of Rock Mechanics and Engineering. He has been engaged in the research in the field of computational engineering geology, and has made rich achievements in the theoretical research and system development of the discrete element method, and its application in engineering. He has developed the high-performance discrete element software MatDEM (http://matdem.com), which has been widely used in geology, geotechnical engineering, energy, chemical industry and other fields. Until 2020, he has participated in the researches of 9 projects of National Natural Science Foundation of China. In 2017, he was selected into the 'Young Elite Scientist Sponsorship Program' of the China Association for Science and Technology; and was selected into the 'Six Talent Peaks' high-level talent selection and training funding plan of Jiangsu Province, etc.