Some possibilities in on-line analysis-test procedures for earth structures

Abstract

A procedure for finite element analysis of earth structures in which the stress-strain relations are obtained experimentally as the test proceeds is explored. This requires on-line interactions between the analysis and test results, with the behavior if the soil influencing loading history on the soil samples in the appropriate way. In general, one soil sample is required for each integration point in the finite element mesh, However the number of soil samples required can be reduced by use of a limited number of Ritz modes to represent the deformations.Important recent advances in pseudodynamic test methodology applied to building structures are adapted for use in this on-line analysis-test method. The need to enforce compatibility as well as equilibrium makes this a non-trivial step. A further extension of the method allows dissipation of pore pressures to be accounted for. This is achieved by including the nonlinear generalization of Biot's equations in the analytical part of the procedure.