Scale effects in rockfill behaviour

• DOI: 10.1680/geolett.12.00025
• Publication Date: 2012-10-14T02:26:25Z
• Authors: E. E. Alonso; M. Tapias; J. Gili
• Keywords: Breakage; Particle (ecology)

The particle sizes in large rockfill structures such as dams prevent laboratory testing. prediction of field behaviour requires the development models that integrate size effects. A distinct element method model was developed which grains are characterised by aggregations a maximum 14 elementary spherical particles (the resulting shape approaches real geometries and allows reasonable breakage evolution) criterion involves subcritical propagation fissures grain. Time effects included through velocity crack propagation, function stress state defect size, is introduced random set varying lengths. used to simulate stress–strain response, evolution grain distribution creep under oedometric conditions. has been range 0·28–56·0 cm initial (uniform distributions were tested). Compressibility partially validated comparing calculations with test results covering reduced particles. paper presents short-term compressibility indices terms size. useful novel tool extrapolate from scaled prototype dimensions.