Viscous–elastic–plastic modelling of one-dimensional time-dependent behaviour of clays

Abstract

Increased attention has recently been directed towards the influence of time and strain-rate effects on the behaviour of clays in one-dimensional (1-D) laboratory consolidation. The improved understanding coming from these studies must now be incorporated into improved constitutive models that can be used for analysis of foundation settlements. This paper presents a 1-D model for stepped loading using a new concept for establishing "equivalent times" during time-dependent straining. This model is then developed into a general constitutive equation for continuous loading. The model uses three parameters, λ, κ, and ψ, that can be easily found using conventional oedometer tests.The general model has been used to develop analytical solutions for creep tests, relaxation tests, constant rate of strain (CRSN) tests, and tests with constant rate of stress (CRSS). Results from three different clays have been used to examine the validity of the model. Key words: consolidation, constitutive modelling, elastic-plastic, viscous, time, creep, strain rate, relaxation.