Computed tomography-characterized strain localization in granular materials

摘要

The authors have conducted an extensive study utilizing computed tomography to characterize the internal structure/fabric and to track the onset and propagation of shear bands in granular materials subjected to uniaxial loading. This paper presents a description of the three CT systems used in the investigation along with examples of CT results. The sand specimens bulge uniformly at the post-peak stress level and develop complex multiple symmetrical radial shear bands at higher axial strain levels. The CT technique has demonstrated good ability to detect specimens' inhomogeneities and localization patterns, and to quantify void ratio variation within sand specimens.