A numerical solution of cavity expansion problem in sand based directly on experimental stress-strain curves: Reply

Abstract

A numerical solution of a spherical and cylindrical cavity expansion problem in sand is presented herein. The underlying theory is unbiased in that it is based directly on experimentally determined stress-strain curves. The solution makes it possible to follow the continuous variation of strains, stresses, and volume changes produced by cavity expansion. It essentially uses the strain path approach to determine the state of stress around the cavity, taking into account large strains and the effect of spherical stress variation on the mobilized shear resistance and the associated volume strains. A limited comparison with experimental data shows a reasonable agreement between theory and measurements.Key words: cavities, expansion, sand, stress-strain curves, numerical solution.