Discrete element method (DEM) and its possible application

In this paper, an outline of the discrete element method (DEM) which had been popular as a tool for solving dynamics of granular media was summarized in terms of its formulation. Successively, some examples of DEM application in terramechanics, where interactions between terrain and machine are the main subject of study, were introduced. Lastly, an attempt of DEM application to plant root-soil interaction was discussed.