Packing density of bi-disperse mixtures under one-dimensional compression

Abstract

This work aims to investigate the effect of fines in different type of bi-disperse grain size distributions in terms of minimum/maximum density, compressibility and crushing. The material adopted is the Light Expanded Clay Aggregate (LECA), an artificial granular material characterized by light, porous and crushable grains. The bi-disperse grading are firstly analysed in terms of packing density, measuring experimentally the minimum and the maximum porosity for different combination of sizes and volume proportions. Then, some selected mixtures are subjected to one-dimensional compression tests up to high pressures. Evolution of grain size due to grain crushing phenomena and compressibility are therefore measured and interpreted. Finally a theoretical model is adopted in order to predict the mechanical material response accounting grain crushing and granular microstructure.