Benchmarking Numerical Methods for Impact and Cratering Applications

Large scale computational models are important for studying impact cratering events that are prevalent both on Earth and, more broadly, in this solar system. To address these problems, models must reliably account for both large length scales (e.g., kilometers) and relatively long time scales (hundreds of seconds). This work benchmarks two such approaches, a more traditional hydrodynamics approach and a finite-discrete element method (FDEM), for impact cratering applications. Both 2D and 3D results are discussed for two different impact velocities, 5 km/s and 20 km/s, striking normal to the target and, for 3D simulations, 45 degrees from vertical. In addition, comparisons to previously published data are presented. Finally, differences in how these methods model damage are discussed. Ultimately, both approaches show successful modeling of several different impact scenarios.

Automated summary

Large scale computational models are crucial for studying impact cratering events in the solar system, and this study benchmarks two approaches for impact cratering applications. The research discusses results for different impact velocities and directions, and compares them to previously published data. Ultimately, both methods successfully model various impact scenarios.