Question

An isotropically consolidated drained (ICD) triaxial compression test is performed on a saturated wellgraded sand (SW) with a peak effective friction angle of 36 degrees and initial relative density of 60 percent. The specimen is consolidated to an effective stress of 200 kPa. (a) Determine the peak deviator stress that can be applied to this specimen. (b) For the above loading, determine the maximum shear stress and the orientation of the planes on which it acts. Also, determine the ratio of shear to normal effective stress on these planes. (c) For the above loading, determine the orientation of the expected failure planes (i.e., planes of sliding or rupture) and the value of the shear stress acting on those planes. Also, determine the ratio of shear to normal effective stress on these planes. (d) Why do the failure planes not correspond to the planes carrying the maximum shear stresses?

Answer 1