Complex Stress Paths and Validation of Constitutive Models

Abstract

Abstract The solution of complicated soil engineering and soil structure interaction problems requires the use of realistic constitutive equations and failure criteria. A recent international workshop held at Case Western Reserve University was aimed at assessing the predictive capability of presently available models for granular noncohesive soils. The results of tests conducted on hollow cylinders at Case and on cubes at the University of Grenoble were used to test the various models. This paper highlights some of the realities of soil testing when the equipment used induces different boundary conditions to the soil samples. It evaluates the predictions submitted to the workshop and examines the adequacy of the various classes of models in predicting simple and complicated stress paths using results obtained from standard tests.