Effect of Solid Volume Concentration on the Rheological Properties of Debris Flow: A Case Study of Jiangjiagou Debris Flow in China

Abstract

The Anton Paar MCR 52 intelligent high-speed rheometer was utilized in this paper to conduct rheological tests on the Jiangjiagou debris flow slurry via linear loading. The relationship curves between shear rate and shear stress at different solid volume concentrations were obtained, and predictive formulas for yield stress and viscosity coefficient variations with the shear rate are proposed. Furthermore, the evolution mechanisms of yield stress and viscosity coefficient with changes in solid volume concentration of the debris flow were thoroughly analyzed. The results indicated that the rheological curves of the Jiangjiagou debris flow conformed to the Bingham fluid model. An increase in solid volume concentration continuously promoted the upward trend of the rheological curves, with significant increments observed only at high volume concentrations. A predictive model for debris flow rheological parameters was established based on the linear relationship between the rheological parameters and the solid volume concentration. The rise in solid volume concentration inhibited turbulence in the debris flow, while clay minerals enhanced the debris flow slurry’s ability to capture pore water. Significant shear-thinning effects were observed within the debris flow, which were particularly more pronounced at lower shear rates. The study outcomes hold crucial engineering significance for a better understanding of debris flow rheological properties, the calculation of debris flow dynamic parameters, and disaster prevention and control.