Effects of slope topography on rock avalanche mobility and deposition: A 2-D discrete element method investigation

Abstract

Abstract The impact of rock avalanches is a major concern in mountain areas. However, fundamental understanding and reliable prediction of the depositional area of rock avalanches remains inadequate. Here, an idealized numerical study of granular materials flowing down a slope is carried out using two-dimensional (2-D) discrete element method simulations. The effects of the slope geometry on the mobility and deposit morphology of the granular flow are studied in detail. It is found that the granular flow mobility increases with the curvature radius of the circular ramp, leading to a longer runout distance, which is explained from the viewpoint of energy transfer and dissipation. The results are expected to enhance understanding of the travel and deposition mechanisms of rock avalanches and other related geophysical flows.