Systematic effect of particle roundness/angularity on macro- and microscopic behavior of granular materials

Abstract Roundness/angularity is a vital shape descriptor that significantly impacts the mechanical response of granular materials and closely associated with many geotechnical problems, such as liquefaction, slope stability, bearing capacity. In this study, series biaxial shearing tests are conducted on dual-size aluminum circular hexagonal rod material. A novel image analysis technique used to estimate particle kinematics. discrete element model (DEM) test then developed validated by comparing it complete experimental data set. To systematically investigate effect roundness/angularity behavior, DEM simulate eight non-elongated convex polygonal-shaped particles. Macroscopically, observed angular assemblies exhibit higher shear strengths volumetric deformations, i.e., dilations. Moreover, unique relationship between critical state stress ratio roundness. Microscopically, roundness shows considerable rotational behavior absolute mean cumulative rotation at same strain level increases decrease in results relatively stronger interlocking, restricting an individual particle’s free rotation. Furthermore, particles inside band rotations always low coordination numbers. Generally, geometrical found have dominant than number. Graphical