Newcastle University

Soil Modelling and Numerical Methods

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The course introduces a range of constitutive models capable of describing soil behaviour, and provides an understanding of the principles of numerical modelling. It will introduce the advantages and limitations of different models of soil behaviour, and to select the appropriate soil parameters. Presentations and specially prepared notes and tutorial exercises are combined with the use of geotechnical finite element software to provide the students with a thorough knowledge and understanding of soil modelling.

This course will:

• introduce a range of constitutive models capable of describing soil behaviour
• provide an understanding of the principles of numerical modelling
• enable delegates to develop a working knowledge of geotechnical finite element programs

Course Objectives

On completion of the course, delegates will have developed the ability to:

• describe the basic features of commonly used models of soil behaviour
• understand the advantages and limitations of different models of soil behaviour, and to select the appropriate soil parameters
• use a finite element program to analyse a wide range of geotechnical problems such as foundation or embankment loading situations.

Course Outline

1. Introduction: design objectives, theoretical considerations, physical and analytical models.
2. Elastic models: characteristics of soil behaviour, strain increments and stress variables, elasticity, drained triaxial test, undrained triaxial test, measurement of elastic parameters - oedometer, in-situ geophysics, plate loading, pressuremeter, anisotropy, nonlinearity-secant and tangent stiffness, advantages and limitations of elastic models.
3. Elastic-plastic models: yield surface - Tresca criterion, Von-Mises criterion, Mohr-Coulomb criterion, hardening models, plastic flow rules.
4. Elastic-perfectly plastic Mohr-Coulomb model: elastic properties, yield criterion, flow rule, elastic-plastic stiffness matrix, selection of soil parameters.
5. Extended Mohr-Coulomb model.
6. Clay-clay model: 3D space, isotropic consolidation, critical state line, model ingredients, drained and undrained tests on NC clay, elastic properties, yield surface, flow rule, hardening rule, compliance matrix.
7. Stress paths: foundation loading, slope stability, stress path, 2D and 3D stress spaces, examples of stress paths, pore pressure changes, application of stress paths.
8. Finite element method: introduction, how the FE works, mathematical foundations, nodes, elements and shape functions, principle of virtual displacement, external and internal work.

Presenters

School of Civil Engineering and Geosciences

• Dr Mohamed Rouainia (Course Leader)
• Dr Gaetano Elia

[ Book online ]

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