Journal Published Online: 05 July 2018
Volume 41, Issue 5

Marchetti Flat Dilatometer Tests in a Virtual Calibration Chamber

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

Calibration chambers are frequently used to verify, adapt, or both verify and adapt empirical relations between different state variables and in situ test results. Virtual calibration chambers (VCC) built with 3D discrete element models may be used to extend and partially substitute costly physical testing series. VCC are used here to explore the mechanics of flat dilatometer penetration and expansion. Results obtained for a simulation of physical tests in Ticino sand are presented. Blade tip resistance during penetration is in good agreement with the experiments. A piston-like design is used for the blade so that larger displacements may be applied than it is possible with a membrane. Initial piston pressures in the expansion curves are very low, strongly affected by the scaled-up grain sizes. Despite that difficulty, expansion curves may be easily interpreted to recover dilatometer moduli ED close to those observed in the physical experiments. Particle-scale examination of the results allows a firmer understanding of the current limitations and future potential of the technique.

Author Information

Butlanska, Joanna
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Geosciences Division, UPC, Modul D2, Spain
Arroyo, Marcos
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Geosciences Division, UPC, Modul D2, Spain
Amoroso, Sara
Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia, L’Aquila, Italy
Gens, Antonio
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Geosciences Division, UPC, Modul D2, Spain
Pages: 16
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: GTJ20170370
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ20170370