Constitutive modelling for granular media using an anisotropic distortional yield model (Q1914954)

This paper employs a combination of analytical, numerical and experimental techniques in an attempt to model the mechanical behaviour of prestrained granular media. To this end, the authors present a plasticity model based on an anisotropic distortional yield model proposed by the first author and \textit{M. Foroozesh} [J. Appl. Mech. 57, 537-547 (1990)] and utilise observed experimental data from a comprehensive series of experiments. To commence, the authors assume that the yield surface can be expressed in terms of a fourth order tensor containing three parameters which must be determined from experimental data. The constitutive formulation is then completed by introducing a kinematic hardening rule based on the Phillips rule, and a flow rule based on the normality observed on the octahedral or \(\pi\)-plane. The elasto-plastic stiffness matrix is then calculated under the additional assumption that the medium is isotropic in the elastic region. Finally, graphs illustrating yield surfaces generated in both torsion and compression tests and also graphs illustrating stress-strain curves generated by a stress controlled flow are presented. It is found that there is a good correlation between the predictions of the model and the experimental observations. Experimental and numerical simulation results also indicate that yield surfaces distort in the direction of loading, and suggest that a hardening law independent of the prestrain direction is appropriate. In this initial paper no attempt has been made to account for the effect of volumetric strains, and indeed the model presented cannot address this phenomenon, since it assumes the elastic behaviour within the yield surface to be isotropic.