Toward Generalized Continuum Models of Granular Soil and Soil-Tire Interaction
Abstract
This report summarizes accomplishments from Phase 3, the objectives of which were as follows: (1) the refinement and evaluation of the constitutive models, and (2) the implementation of these models using the finite element method to the classical flat punch problem. The authors' micromechanical approach has delivered the first breed of enriched continuum models for granular media, with a resolution high enough to capture internal microstructures that are only a few particles wide (e.g., shear bands). In addition, these models have a number of distinct advantages over other models of granular media (e.g., the ability to capture loss of contacts, slip and non-slip modes of inter-particle contact, evolution of contact and force anisotropy, interparticle rolling resistance, etc.). Model predictions against two benchmark laboratory experiments (viz. bi-axial compression and simple shear of assemblies of uniformly sized circular rods) were in good agreement with experimental data, particularly on the phenomenon of shear banding. In fulfillment of the second objective for Phase 3, the authors also examined the frictional contact of a rigid flat punch and found their model predictions to be consistent with experimental findings. Research efforts this year will focus on the finite element implementation of their micromechanical constitutive models to a broader range of engineering scale problems, including sand-tire interaction. The objectives of Phase 3 were achieved through a series of projects: Micromechanical modeling of 2D dry granular materials; 1D shear band analysis using generalized micropolar constitutive laws; Software development: Visualization for discrete element simulations; Micromechanical modeling of 3D wet foams; Oscillatory shear of a dry granular material; Extension of micropolar homogenization theory to 3D deformation of polydisperse particulate assemblies; Integrating thermomechanics theory to micromechanical modeling of granular media. (20 refs.) 7
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA424807
Entities
People
- Antoinette Tordesillas
Organizations
- University of Melbourne