Journal Published Online: 25 August 2004
Volume 27, Issue 5

Use of EPS Grains to Simulate the Behavior of MSW in Simple Shear

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

The difficulty in laboratory testing of highly heterogeneous municipal solid waste (MSW) may suggest an investigation of the influence of different stress/strain/drainage conditions, and use of an analogical equivalent medium such as assemblies of expanded polystyrene (EPS) grains, which are characterized by a mechanical response very similar to MSW but relatively simpler for testing preparation. Both materials, in fact, evidently show a behavioral analogy, such as a different response when subjected to triaxial compression or pure shear, resulting from the effects of significant porosity and a relevant inherent compressibility of the individual elements.

This research is concerned with an experimental investigation into the behavior of saturated assemblies of EPS grains, tested in the laboratory using a modified simple shear device. In addition to the description of the experimental testing technique, this paper attempts to discuss the main outcome of test results, showing particularly the influence of inherent compressibility of EPS grains on material volumetric response.

Author Information

Simonini, P
University of Padova, Padova, Italy
De Ronch, M
Contarina S.p.a., Environmental Services Management, Spresiano, Treviso
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: GTJ11915
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ11915