Evolution of Particle Crushing and Shear Behavior with Respect to Particle Shape Using PFC

In order to analyze the influence of particle shape on evolution of particle crushing and characteristic of shear behavior of granular soil, direct shear test was simulated by using DEM (Discrete Element Method). Six particle shapes were generated by clump and cluster model built in PFC (Particle Flow Code). The results of direct shear test for six particle shapes were compared and analyzed with those for circular particle shape. The results of numerical tests showed a good agreement with those of experimental tests, thus the appropriateness of numerical modelling set in this study was proved. As for particle shape, more angular and rougher particle induced larger internal friction angle and more particle crushing than relatively round and smooth particle. When particles were crushed, crushing was concentrated on the shear band adjacent to the shear plane. Finally, it can be concluded that the numerical models suggested in this study can be used extensively for other studies concerning the shear behavior of granular soil including soil crushing.