What can large deformation methods for geomechanics bring to design of excavated structures?

[awa5114]

I have a small research project related to using large deformation numerical methods in geomechanics. Particularly, I am exploring possibilities of modelling excavation problems using the Material Point Method.

Beyond the modelling aspect, I would like to understand how this novel method can bring added value to actual, real-world applications. Some common excavation practices in industry include tunnels, pile and sheet pile walls, diaphragm walls, cylindrical excavations for silos, tanks and other types of containers.

I imagine that generally such excavations are planned and designed according to limit equilibrium methods or FEM for the trickier stuff. FEM of course stops working once you have post-failure type deformation, but this is generally not needed for design. We design these things to not fail and don't really think about what would happen if they do fail.

My question is this: What added value in terms of economical or practical benefit can an awareness of large deformations of excavated works bring to the table? It's nice to have a sophisticated numerical method, but it would be quite pointless without bringing added value to real problems.

Thanks for your help and look forward to hearing from you.

 

[oldestguy]

In your case, before getting too far into it, you should look up the various strength and physical properties engineers normally are familiar with to be used in your study and then contact some practicing structural and geotechnical engineers to see if your program might interest them. I suspect you need some form of "benefits to expect" program also with these contacts. No point in spending energy on something that doesn't get practicing engineers interested.

 

[Okiryu]

Some things that I would be interesting on:
1. Sometimes excavations are done nearby existing structures and people would like to know how these excavations will affect these structures.
2. You can also check for groundwater conditions affecting excavations. Or, how groundwater is affected by excavations.
3. Transient loading affecting excavations.
4. Perhaps your model can also have design features (including costs). I think that if you can include design, it will be more attractive for practicing engineers.