Viscoelastic Behavior of Silica Particle Compacts under Dynamic Compression

Abstract

Theviscoelastic behavior of model sandy soils in the form of silica particle compacts under dynamic compression (0.2-10.0 Hz) is reported. The solid content ranges from 24 to 28% by volume, as controlled by compaction. Both viscous and elastic characters are largely governed by the solid part of the compact. The elastic character stems from the stiffness of the silica, while the viscous character stems from the interparticle movement. The elastic character of the solid part (the storage modulus and solid content) is essentially independent of the degree of compaction, indicating validity of the rule of mixtures. The viscous character of the solid part (the loss tangent and solid content) decreases with increasing degree of compaction, indicating decreasing ease of interparticle movement as the degree of compaction increases. The loss modulus and solid content is essentially independent of the degree of compaction. All quantities decrease with increasing frequency. A low degree of compaction is recommended for fast decay of the vibration amplitude; no particular degree of compaction is recommended for mechanical energy dissipation. DOI: 10.1061/(ASCE)MT.1943-5533.0000831. © 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers. Author keywords: Soil compression; Viscoelasticity; Dynamic properties; Mechanical properties; Compression tests; Vibration damping; Silica; Particles.