DIRECT SHEAR TESTS ON SAND

Experimental data from unreinforced direct shear tests on sand are presented to show the influence of the boundary conditions on the test measurements. The data nd the theoretical considerations of the loading in the test show that a symmetrical direct shear test arrangement is preferable. A new method of analysis for the direct shear test is introduced based on the relationship between the sand shearing resistances and dilatancy. The analysis provides an independent check on the conventional analyses and on the consistency of the data from direct shear tests. The conclusion is that the symmetrical direct shear test is an effective method for the measurement of the plane strain and direct shear angles of friction for sand and the angle of dilation, at the density and stress level tested. The measured plane strain shearing resistance corresponds closely with the minimum value with respect to strength anisoropy. A simple modification for the standard laboratory direct shear apparatus and suggestions for the analysis of standard test data are recommeneded.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00168505
• Corporate Authors:

  Thomas Telford Limited

  London,   United Kingdom 
• Authors:
  • JEWELL, R A
• Publication Date: 1989-6

Media Info

• Features: Figures; References; Tables;
• Pagination: p. 309-322
• Serial:
  • GEOTECHNIQUE
  • Volume: 39
  • Issue Number: 2
  • Publisher: Thomas Telford Limited
  • ISSN: 0016-8505

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Boundary value problems; Dilatancy; Direct shear tests; Friction; Sand; Shear strength; Strain (Mechanics)
• Uncontrolled Terms: Boundary conditions; Friction angle; Plane strain
• Subject Areas: Geotechnology; Highways; I42: Soil Mechanics;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00486385
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 31 1989 12:00AM