Discrete element analysis of direct shear test on bonded sand

Abstract

This paper presents a three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulation of bonded sand in direct shear tests using the distinct element method (DEM), by employing a 3D contact model for bonded sand considering the size of bond. Firstly, series of direct shear tests with different vertical pressure were simulated by DEM. Then, the macroscopic characteristics of sample were analyzed along with sand sample without cementation. Finally, the bonding effect on the mechanical response of sand were studied, and the bond breakage information were studied within the shear band. The results show that the bonded sand demonstrates higher peak and residual stress as well as dilatant behavior due to cementation, and intensive bond breakage and high local void ratio are found inside the shear band.