Evaluating influences of deposition direction and state-dependence on large deformation processes of granular column collapse

Abstract

This paper examines the impacts of deposition direction and density of granular soils on their large deformation behavior encapsulated by column collapse processes. We combine a critical state-based, anisotropic constitutive model for sand and material point method (MPM). The constitutive model includes state- and fabric-dependent dilatancy and hardening, thus accounting for the effects of density and deposition direction on the mechanical behavior of soils. The MPM model is first validated against experimental results. We then investigate the fundamental connections between local constitutive properties of soils (e.g., friction and dilation) and global column collapse response. Based on these correlations, this work further studies how material density and deposition direction influence collapse behavior, including run-out distance, residual height, and slope angle of the static region. Results indicate that run-out distance is relatively insensitive to initial soil density but can be significantly altered by the deposition direction of soils. Peak run-out distance is observed as the deposition direction is aligned with sliding band formed within the granular column. Moreover, a higher density or a smaller inclination of deposit direction leads to a greater residual height and a steeper slope of the static region. The mechanisms of above effects from soil properties perspectives are discussed.