Discrete Element Modeling Professors and Supervisors in China

Chen JianfeiView profile

Professor

Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)China

Professor Chen Jianfei is a Chair Professor at the Department of Marine Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, China. He previously held academic positions at Queen’s University Belfast (2013-2019), University of Edinburgh (2002-2013), and Zhejiang University (1987-1992). His leadership roles include serving as President of the International Institute for FRP in Construction (IIFC) from 2014 to 2018. PhD in Civil Engineering, University of Edinburgh (1996) MSc in Structural Engineering, Zhejiang University (1987) BEng in Structural Engineering, Zhejiang University (1984) Professor Chen’s research spans civil engineering and mechanics of bulk materials , focusing on: Application of high-performance FRP composites in civil infrastructure Development of advanced discrete/finite element methods for structural analysis Mechanics of granular solids and bulk material flow in silos Seawater sea-sand concrete and high-performance concrete systems Hybrid floating structures and subsea pipelines His publications include the foundational monograph FRP-Strengthened RC Structures (translated into Chinese, Korean, Persian) and over 300 papers. Google Scholar cites exceed 7,664 (Web of Science), with an h-index of 30. His work has been adopted into international standards. Honors include: 2021 IIFC Medal (highest award in FRP composites) 2016 Howard Medal (oldest ICE award, since 1872) 2016 Elsevier Highly Cited Researcher in Civil Engineering 2015 Frederick Palmer Prize (ICE journal best paper) 2006 President’s Award (IIFC) He has secured major grants for projects like Re-use of Wind Turbine Blades (US-Ireland partnership, $1.3m) and FRP Confined Seawater Concrete (NSFC, RMB747,000).

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Chao YUANView profile

Professor

Shandong UniversityChina

Chao YUAN is a Professor in the Department of Engineering Mechanics at the School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University, China. He obtained his PhD in Geomechanics/Civil Engineering from Université Grenoble Alpes (France) in 2016, following MSc and BEng degrees from Shandong University. Education : PhD (2012-2016), MSc (2009-2012), BEng (2005-2009) Prior Appointments : Postdoctoral Associate at University of Calgary (2017-2019), Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Université Grenoble Alpes (2016-2017) Research Interests focus on granular material mechanics through advanced computational methods. His work includes discrete element modeling , multi-physics/multiphase couplings , unsaturated soil mechanics , and soil conditioning in Tunnel Boring Machines . Key contributions involve pore-scale simulations of hydromechanical interactions and stability analysis of tunnels and slopes. Publication Trends emphasize computational geotechnics , with studies on drainage dynamics, wetting-induced collapse, and machine learning applications in geomechanics. His articles span journals like Granular Matter , Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , and Acta Geotechnica , reflecting interdisciplinary approaches to granular media. Contact : chao.yuan@sdu.edu.cn , chaoyuan.geo@outlook.com

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Shu-Gang AiView profile

Academic

Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)China

Shu-Gang Ai is a Research Assistant Professor at the Southern University of Science and Technology's School of Earth and Space Sciences. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from Tongji University (2021) and a Master's in Architectural and Civil Engineering from the same institution (2016). His research focuses on carbon dioxide geological sequestration, disaster prevention in complex rock masses, and finite element-discrete element numerical software development. His publications highlight expertise in geosynthetic reinforcement mechanics, landfill stability analysis, and computational geoscience. Recent work includes multiscale modeling of material interfaces and leachate distribution monitoring using geophysical methods. While no formal awards are listed, his contributions span both theoretical and applied studies in geotechnical and environmental engineering.

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Gao, KeView profile

Associate Professor

Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)China

Dr. Ke Gao is an Associate Professor in the Department of Earth and Space Sciences at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) in Shenzhen, China. He joined SUSTech in 2019 after completing postdoctoral research at Los Alamos National Laboratory in the United States. Dr. Gao holds a Ph.D. in Rock Mechanics from the University of Toronto, which he obtained in 2017. His educational background includes: 2021–present: Associate Professor, Department of Earth and Space Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology 2019–2020: Assistant Professor, Department of Earth and Space Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology 2017–2019: Post Doc, Solid Earth Geophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, USA 2012–2017: Ph.D., Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada Dr. Gao's research primarily focuses on rock mechanics and fault mechanics, with particular emphasis on the development of multiphysics coupling models based on the combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM). His work investigates rock fracturing mechanisms, hydraulic fracturing, and the stick-slip characteristics in sheared granular faults. He has made significant contributions to tensor-based statistical methods for characterizing stress variability and heterogeneity in fractured rock masses. His research bridges computational mechanics with earthquake physics, creating innovative approaches to understanding fundamental geological processes. Analysis of Dr. Gao's recent publications reveals a strong focus on computational geomechanics and earthquake physics. His work consistently applies and advances the combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM) to solve complex rock mechanics problems. There's a clear progression from fundamental method development to applications in earthquake source mechanics and hydraulic fracturing. The integration of machine learning techniques with traditional computational methods represents an emerging trend in his recent work, particularly for predicting slip behavior in granular fault systems. Dr. Gao has received several notable recognitions: Best Paper Award at the 7th International Symposium on In Situ Rock Stress (2016) National Overseas High-level Talent Program (Youth) (2020) Shenzhen 'Peacock Plan' B Talents (2021) Dr. Gao serves as principal investigator for multiple research projects funded by prestigious organizations including the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Ministry of Science and Technology key research and development projects, Guangdong Province general projects, and Shenzhen City general projects. He actively mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, recruiting candidates with backgrounds in solid geophysics, rock mechanics, geological engineering, computational mechanics, and related disciplines. His research group provides comprehensive training in both theoretical and experimental aspects of rock mechanics and earthquake physics. Dr. Gao is affiliated with several professional organizations including the American Rock Mechanics Association, American Geophysical Union, International Society for Rock Mechanics, Canadian Geotechnical Society, Society of American Seismology, and ASCE Engineering Mechanics Institute, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his work spanning rock mechanics, geophysics, and computational engineering.

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Fu YongView profile

Assistant Professor

Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)China

Dr. Fu Yong is an Assistant Professor and doctoral supervisor at the Department of Marine Science and Engineering , Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech), Shenzhen, China. He earned his PhD in Geotechnical Engineering from the National University of Singapore (NUS) in 2018, preceded by a Master's (Tongji University, 2013) and Bachelor's (Shanghai University, 2010) in Civil Engineering . Current Role: Assistant Professor, SUSTech (2020–present) Prior Roles: Research Fellow (NUS, 2018–2020), Research Engineer (NUS, 2017–2018) Dr. Fu specializes in marine geotechnical engineering , with key focuses on offshore wind power foundation design, deep-sea anchoring technologies, and underground space development. His technical expertise includes large deformation finite element modeling (CEL/RITSS methods), stochastic analysis , and machine learning (GWO-MLP optimization). His work bridges laboratory experiments (centrifuge and field tests) with computational simulations to address challenges in marine infrastructure. Marine foundation design for offshore wind turbines and marine ranches Deepwater dynamic penetration anchoring systems Horizontal deep soil mixing equipment for underground space Finite element simulation of large deformations and thermal effects His publication trends reveal a consistent focus on offshore anchoring mechanics, shale fracture modeling, and machine learning integration for geotechnical predictions. Recent works (2024–2025) emphasize torsional effects in suction anchors, sand-GFRP interface behavior, and advanced constitutive models for cemented soils. Key journals: Geotechnique , Ocean Engineering , Physics of Fluids , Computers and Geotechnics Dr. Fu has received multiple scientific awards , including the 2024 SUSTech Undergraduate Teaching Award, 2022 SUSTech Outstanding College Mentor Award, and NUS Research Scholarship (2013–2017). Selected Honors: 2024 First Prize, SUSTech Undergraduate Teaching Award 2022 SUSTech Outstanding College Mentor 2020 Shenzhen Overseas High-level C Talent He actively contributes as a reviewer for 18+ international journals and serves on editorial boards for journals like Sustainable Structures . His work on machine learning-driven anchor penetration prediction (2024) and hybrid phase-field shale fracture modeling (2024) exemplifies interdisciplinary innovation.

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Kang DUANView profile

Professor

Shandong UniversityChina

Kang DUAN is a Professor at the School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University, and a Qilu Young Scholar. His research focuses on energy-related geomechanics, computational modeling of rock behavior, and physical model testing for underground infrastructure. PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong (2016) Master in Geotechnical Engineering, Shandong University (2012) Bachelor in Civil Engineering, Shandong University (2009) His research in energy-related geomechanics examines hydraulic fracturing and underground cavern stability for energy storage. In computational geomechanics , he specializes in Discrete Element Method (DEM) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to model rock failure mechanisms. His work on micromechanics of rock failure investigates crack propagation and anisotropic behavior through numerical simulations and experimental testing. The 15 most recent publications showcase his expertise in hydraulic fracturing dynamics, rock creep behavior, and fracture mechanics. Articles from 2019-2020 emphasize numerical modeling of directional drilling instability, multi-joint rock deformation, and stress-induced borehole failure, with applications to energy extraction and underground construction. Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award 2014-2015, The University of Hong Kong Ringo Yu Prize for Best PhD Thesis in Geotechnical Studies 2016, HKIE

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Qingrong XiongView profile

Professor

Shandong UniversityChina

Qingrong Xiong is a Professor in the Department of Hydraulic Engineering at the School of Civil Engineering, Shandong University. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the University of Manchester (2012–2015) and received a Master's and Bachelor's in Hydraulic and Hydroelectric Engineering from Wuhan University (2010–2012, 2006–2010). Education: PhD in Civil Engineering, University of Manchester (2012–2015) Master of Hydraulic and Hydroelectric Engineering, Wuhan University (2010–2012) Bachelor of Hydraulic and Hydroelectric Engineering, Wuhan University (2006–2010) His research focuses on Hydrogen Storage , Carbon Capture and Storage , Nuclear Waste Disposal , and Thermal-Hydraulic-Chemical-Mechanical (THCM) Modeling of geomaterials. He specializes in pore network modeling, reactive transport in porous media, and coupled stress-seepage field analysis of underground rocks. Recent publications emphasize 3D mesostructural modeling , reactive diffusion in clays , and numerical simulation of microstructural evolution in nuclear materials. His work combines computational methods (finite element analysis, pore network models) with experimental validation. Scientific Awards President's Doctoral Scholar Award, University of Manchester

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FAN DianView profile

Assistant Professor

Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech)China

FAN Dian is a Research Assistant Professor at the School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech). He obtained his Ph.D. in Petroleum Engineering from Texas Tech University in 2018 and a B.E. in Petroleum Engineering from Chengdu University of Technology in 2013. His research focuses on fluid and particle transport in geological porous media through multi-scale numerical simulations, with applications in shale oil/gas extraction, CO₂ sequestration, microplastic removal, and environmental tracer recovery. Key methodologies include lattice Boltzmann simulations and statistical mechanical modeling. Dr. Fan's publications demonstrate strong emphasis on: 1) Fundamental transport phenomena in porous media, 2) Advanced simulation techniques (LBM/CFD-DEM), and 3) Applied petroleum engineering solutions. Recent works show increasing focus on environmental applications and non-spherical particle dynamics. Awards: Pengcheng Peacock Plan Specially-Hired Talent (2023) Research Funding: Principal Investigator: National Natural Science Foundation of China project on shale media deformation (2023-2025) Participant: EU Horizon 2020 projects Science 4 Clean Energy (€9.7M) and ShaleXenvironmenT (€3.4M) He maintains international collaborations through visiting positions at Helmholtz Institute Erlangen-Nurnberg and previously held research/teaching roles at University College London.

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