Comparisons of deformation characteristics of rockfill materials using monotonic and cyclic loading laboratory tests and in situ tests

Abstract

The deformation characteristics of rockfill materials at very small strains were investigated by comparing the results of monotonic and cyclic loading laboratory tests with geophysical P- and S-wave logging data from the field. Using a precision linear variable differential transformer for displacement, the elastic moduli of rockfill materials at very small strains were measured in monotonic and cyclic loading triaxial tests. The laboratory test results agreed well with the field results. The shear moduli of rockfill materials from both a monotonic loading torsional simple shear test and a cyclic loading torsional simple shear test also showed good correspondence. Furthermore, the shear modulus predicted from the in situ shear wave tests in rockfill dams corresponded reasonably well with the modulus in the large-scale triaxial tests in the laboratory. Key words : deformation characteristics, embankment dams, rockfill materials, laboratory test, in situ test.