Fractal crushing of carbonate sands under impact loading

Abstract

Carbonate sands are widely used in coastal engineering for foundation and embankment. Impact loading could be encountered during driving piles or compacting foundations, which could lead to large grain crushing and changes in grain size distribution. Fractal grading and crushing of carbonate sands were investigated through impact loading tests. The fractal grading uplifted as grains crushed. The fractal dimension and mean diameter decreased with decreasing the specimen height or increasing the input work, while the grain crushing increased with decreasing the specimen height or increasing the input work. It was observed from the test results that the fractal grading of carbonate sand under impact loadings could be intrinsically pertaining to the grain crushing.