Strain localisation modelling and pore pressure in saturated sand samples

Abstract

Dynamic strain localisation theory together with a multiphase material model is used to simulate shear band dominated processes in fully saturated sand samples. The fluid-saturated medium is viewed as multi-phase continuum consisting of a solid skeleton and pores filled by fluids. The governing equations are based on the general framework of averaging theories. A generalised plasticity constitutive model for fully saturated soils is adopted in the computational process. Both samples of medium-loose and dense sands are studied. Negative water pressures, which are important in localisation phenomena of fully saturated dilatant geomaterials, are obtained for dense sands, while positive water pressures result for medium-loose sands.