Discrete numerical modelling of the mechanical behaviour of rockfill in a oedometer test with suction control

Abstract

The effect of suction in the compressibility of rockfill along different stress paths is studied using the discrete element method. Rockfill particles are modeled as breakable clumped particles and reasonable consistency is found between the predicted and experimental results. The simulation highlights the influence of suction and the particle breakage on the mechanical behaviour of the assembly. The capabilities of the discrete element method are also explored to study the microscopic interactions that occur during the oedometer tests.