  We employ a novel discrete element method (DEM) force formulation to simulate
adhesive wear and assess the effects of material and loading parameters on the
properties of the third-body layer (TBL) formed during sliding motion. The
study emphasizes the role of a material's critical length scale d* in the
rheology of the TBL. This critical length scale is already known for
controlling the size of smallest wear particles. We observe the emergence of a
several wear regimes involving wear particle creation and aggregation, with
limited effect from d* on TBL properties. Instead, material strength and
surface energy have a profound influence. This study opens up new avenues for
exploration of larger systems, three-dimensional setups, and other loading
conditions.
