SOIL PLASTICITY AND FINITE ELEMENT APPLICATIONS (CAP MODEL, BOUNDING SURFACE, BOSTON BLUE CLAY, EMBANKMENT REINFORCEMENT)
Abstract
The formulation, implementation, calibration and application of soil plasticity models are discussed. Emphasis is given to the finite element solution of boundary value problems involving soil plasticity. Solutions to classical footing collapse and lateral earth pressure problems are obtained using several plasticity models. Comparisons are made with results obtained from limit analysis and limit equilibrium techniques. A method of analyzing the undrained response of soils is presented and coupled with two Critical State type plasticity models. The predicted response of several embankments are compared to the actual measured response. The use of geotextile reinforcing in embankments is investigated. It is determined the finite element method, when coupled with soil plasticity models, may provide reasonable solutions to many geotechnical engineering problems. However, limitations of the present numerical techniques and plasticity models exist.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Civil engineering
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.