Fine Ottawa Sand: Experimental Behavior and Theoretical Predictions

Abstract

Results from a comprehensive experimental program on both loose and dense fine Ottawa silica sand subjected to generalized monotonic loading are presented. The experimental program was conducted on both solid and hollow cylinder specimens, using a new hollow cylinder apparatus, and includes isotropic, triaxial compression, triaxial extension, simple shear, axial/torsional, and other combined tests at various stress levels. This paper presents part of the results with the emphasis placed on generalized failure and yield criteria. The results are compared with predictions using Lade's single‐hardening constitutive model for factional materials based on nonassociated flow plasticity. The comparisons show good agreement between experimental data and model predictions for the failure surfaces for both loose and dense sand. Moreover, very good agreement is shown between experimental data and simulation results for the isotropic, triaxial compression, triaxial extension, and simple shear tests examined.