Mechanical Characteristics of EPS Block Fill and its Simulation by DEM and FEM

• Published in: SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS Vol. 38; no. 1; pp. 97 - 110
• Main Authors: Takahara, Toshiyuki, Miura, Kinya
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Tokyo Elsevier B.V 01.03.1998; The Japanese Geotechnical Society; Japanese Geotechnical Society
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Buildings. Public works; Computation methods. Tables. Charts; deformation; distinct element method; EPS: expanded poly-styrole; Exact sciences and technology; finite element method; Geotechnics; light weight fill; loading test; model test (IGC: E13/E14); Soil mechanics. Rocks mechanics; Structural analysis. Stresses; light weight fill; finite element method; distinct element method; deformation; loading test; EPS: expanded poly-styrole; model test (IGC: E13/E14); Expanded material; Propagation; Mechanical properties; Experimental study; Stress strain; Arrangement; Finite element method; Embankments; Illustrated description; Block; Numerical simulation; Loading test(mechanics); Computing method; Comparative study
• ISSN: 0038-0806; 1341-7452
• DOI: 10.3208/sandf.38.97

The mechanical characteristics of an EPS block light weight fill, which consists of assembled EPS (Expanded Poly-Styrol) blocks, was investigated. The mechanism of load propagation and deformation of the fill was examined in two series of laboratory tests on EPS block model fills; Load Propagation and Deformation Tests were conducted on the EPS block model fills with various internal structures. The test results obtained, revealed that the characteristic mechanical behavior of the fill is a type of discrete media; the mechanical properties of EPS block fill is very much influenced by its internal structure. The influence of fasteners was also investigated experimentally. The behaviors of the fills observed in the laboratory tests were analyzed by two numerical calculation methods: DEM (Distinct Element Method) and FEM (Finite Element Method). As a result of the comparison of the calculation results with the observed behaviors, the superior applicability of DEM to EPS block fills was shown. It was found that DEM can explain the load propagation properties with regard to the effect of fastener, and simulate the deformation behavior of the fill.