Discrete element model of a typical refractory microstructure

This report will review the development of numerical tools based on the discrete element method DEM for investigation of relationships between microstructure and thermomechanical properties of model materials including debonding thermomechanical coupling crackclosure and anisotropic behaviours The thereby developed virtual numerical lab will enable virtual tests as tensile dilatometry fracture mechanics or thermal shock for virtual characterizations aiming on proposition of simple laws to optimize the microstructure design that drives thermomechanical strength for model refractories