This study first reviewed theories of the mechanical response of structures under loading, and the discrete element method provides a route for studying mechanical response including elastic deformation and structure failure. However, the direct acquisition of the microscopic parameters from the governing equations of the discrete element method via experiments encounters challenges. One possible strategy to obtain these microscopic parameters is parameter calibration that are widely used by researchers. Secondly, the governing equations and failure criterion of the discrete element method are summarized, and the microscopic parameters that would be calibrated are pinpointed. Next, the principles of classical calibration methods of discrete element method are explicated in detail, alongside the validation and discussion of their properties. Lastly, this study examined the applicability of calibrated parameters and points out that the size ratio, porosity, maximum radius, and minimum radius of particles should be identical in both the geometric calibration model and that for applications.
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