Anisotropy of shear wave velocity - Role of grain orientation

Abstract

Stiffness anisotropy of non-cohesive natural soils can be induced by anisotropic stress states (stress-induced anisotropy) and by fabric of soil structure (inherent anisotropy). However, the underlying mechanism of inherent anisotropy has not been fully understood. This study discusses the following questions: ①Dose the particle orientation influence anisotropy of shear wave velocities? ②What is the specific relationship between particle orientation and shear wave velocity? To answer the questions above, a cubical soil box equipped with multi-directional piezo-ceramic transducers has been developed, and cubical specimens composed of elongated rice grains have been tested to measure multi-directional shear wave velocities.