Discrete Element Method Simulation of the Idaho Calcine Simulant for Hot Isostatic Pressing Canister Filling Process: Part 2

This paper introduces a novel approach to the bulk material handling of simulated radioactive material, focusing on the challenging Idaho calcine waste. Due to the limited availability of the simulant, virtual dynamic simulations were utilized to develop technology demonstration−scale models to assess the efficacy of the discrete element method (DEM) for process development studies. The DEM model was validated using historical experimental data, demonstrating its feasibility with affordable hardware. Acknowledging the limitations of computational analysis, the presented contact model is deemed adequate for preliminary engineering studies. This research advances bulk material handling and provides valuable insights for nuclear waste treatment processes, offering a pioneering framework for researchers working with the Idaho calcine simulant.