Constitutive Modelling in Geomechanics

by Puzrin, Alexander M.

• ISBN13: 9783642273940
• ISBN10: 3642273947
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2012-01-19
• Publisher: Springer Verlag

Summary

Based on a course of lectures given over the last 15 years the purpose of this book is to bridge the gap between the graduate courses in Geomechanics and those in Numerical Geotechnical Modelling, for practical usage in science and practice. Often, Geomechanics is not taught within the rigorous context of Continuum Mechanics and Thermodynamics. However, when it comes to Numerical Modelling, commercially available finite elements or finite differences software are used, which utilize constitutive relationships within the Continuous Mechanics framework. Young scientists, learning the challenging subject of constitutive modelling from a program manual sometimes end up with using models which violate the Laws of Thermodynamics. The book is introductory on a scientific level but requires baisc knowledge in Geomechanics. By no means does it claim any completeness and state of the art in such a dynamically developing field as numerical and constitutive modelling of soils. The author gives basic understanding of conventional continuum mechanics approaches to constitutive modelling, which can serve as a foundation for exploring more advanced theories. A considerable effort has been invested here into the clarity and brevity of the presentation. With a focus on understanding how different aspects of complex soil behaviour can be modelled the reader will be enabled tu use conventional constitutive models, which can be readily found within the available numerical codes. This book also explores thermomechanical consistency of all presented constitutive models in a simple and systematic manner.