Microstructural Analysis

One of the main advantages of the discrete approach as defined by Itasca (PFC) is that it allows to accurately reproduce the size distribution, the grain shape (rounded, angular, or elongated), the mineralogical composition, as well as the mechanical and thermal properties of each mineral.

Thanks to this accurate description, it is possible to study the maximum compaction of a granular packing or the agglomeration of a powder under vibration/compression, to reproduce a real fibrous structure obtained from 3D tomographic images or the microstructure of composite materials. The relationship between the microstructure and target macroproperties—such as mechanical strength under various loadings (compression, tension, bending test), permeability, or electrical resistivity— can thereafter be investigated, and optimizations proposed.

Discrete modelling of fibrous structure from 3D tomography images: PFC3D model (on the left) and photograph of a real sample (on the right).
FBD specimen of a baked anode material (PFC2D model).
Latest News
  • Itasca has announced the release of FLAC3D v9 Itasca has announced the release of FLAC3D v9, an advanced continuum modeling tool for solving...
    Read More
  • ARMA 2022 Student Design Competition Congratulations to the winners of the American Rock Mechanics Association's (ARMA) 2022 Student Design Competition....
    Read More
  • International Slope Stability 2022 Itasca is proud to be a Diamond sponsor of Slope Stability 2022 (October 17-21 |...
    Read More

Upcoming Events
13 Jun
URTeC 2023
The Unconventional Resources Technology Conference (URTeC) is a premier event focused on the latest science and technology applied to e... Read More
25 Jun
APCOM 2023
APCOM brings together both industry practitioners and academics to share ideas, innovations, and challenges.... Read More
25 Jun
ARMA 2023
The American Rock Mechanics Association invites you to its 57th U.S. Rock Mechanics / Geomechanics Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia, on 25... Read More