Discrete Element Simulation on Sand-Bed Collision Considering Surface Moisture Content

The process of aeolian sand transport is an important mechanism leading to the formation and evolution of local landforms in coastal areas and desert lakes. For a long time, the role of surface moisture in incipient motion of sand grains by wind stress has been extensively studied but, in fact, sand-bed collision is the main mechanism in steady aeolian sand flow. At present, the lack of understanding of surface moisture content on sand-bed collision limits the application of aeolian sand transport models in wet coastal areas. In this paper, we adopt numerical simulations to discuss and analyze the effect of cohesive forces formed by surface moisture content on the sand-bed collision process based on discrete element method. High density contact forces appear with the surface moisture increasing, and form a closed structure around the edge of crater to resist the avulsion in horizontal direction. Under high moisture condition, even though the ejected sand grains saltate away from the surface, the tension forces will prevent from leaving. The ejected number trend with incident velocity shows some nonlinear characteristics due to the unequally distributed force chains and liquid bridges in the unsaturated sand bed surface.

Contribution of Lake-Dune Patterning to the Dune Height of Mega-Dunes in the Badain Jaran Sand Sea, Northern China

Mega-dunes in the lake group area of the Badain Jaran Sand Sea, China, are generally taller than dunes in the non-lake group area. This spatial distribution of dune heights may provide a new perspective on the controversy regarding the dunes’ formation mechanism. In this study, we calculated the relative heights and slopes of individual dunes based on a digital elevation model, and we confirmed the height distribution of abnormally tall dunes in the lake group area of the sand sea. It was also found that slopes of more than 10° in the lake group area are more common than those in the non-lake group area. Based on meteorological observations, coupled with the measurement of water content in the sand layers, we propose a conceptual model demonstrating that moisture exchange between the lakes and soil via non-rainfall water will humidify dune slopes and form a more favorable accumulation environment for aeolian sand, thus increasing dune heights. Although long-term observations are yet to be carried out, the present study can be used as evidence for understanding the basis of dune formation in the lake group area and assessing groundwater utilization in deserts.

Grouting technology and construction schemes of a tunnel in aeolian stratum: a case study of Shenmu No. 1 tunnel

The naturally formed aeolian sand dunes in northern Shaanxi exhibit unique engineering characteristics. Several challenges, such as the poor self-stabilization ability of the surrounding rock, difficultly in injecting grout, and insufficient construction experience, restrict the construction of road tunnels under this stratum. Therefore, in this study, a case study of the Shenmu No. 1 tunnel was conducted to investigate the engineering characteristics of aeolian sand tunnels, compare the grouting effects of commonly used grouting materials, and discuss the reinforcement effects of different construction schemes in aeolian sand tunnels. Based on a field grouting test, it was determined that it is difficult to inject ordinary cement grout into an aeolian sand layer. Furthermore, it was determined that superfine cement grout and modified sodium silicate grout can be injected, but the former exhibits a poor reinforcement effect. Additionally, results of numerical analysis indicated that an approach based on a concept of “horizontal jet grouting pile + benching partial excavation method with a temporary invert” is suitable for the construction of tunnels in aeolian sand in China.