Homogeneity and symmetry in DEM models of cone penetration

Abstract

A three—dimensional numerical model was implemented to PFC3D Code to simulate cone penetration test in Ticino sand in a calibration chamber. The model is calibrated using laboratory test results. The full/half/quarter calibration chamber was used to examine the effect of symmetry on the results. Examination of specimen homogeneity was done by (i) visual observation of the network of the contact forces developing between particles, (ii) examination of the porosity, d50 and Cu distributions inside the specimen by using a representative elementary volume (REV). Some overall results from these simulations are also presented here and compared with the experimental results from a calibration chamber test database.