Simulating the dynamic behavior and energy consumption characteristics of frozen sandy soil under impact loading

Abstract

Abstract The dynamic mechanical properties of frozen sandy soil (initial moisture content of 20%) are investigated using a 30-mm-diameter split Hopkinson pressure bar system. The results demonstrate that the dynamic compressive strength and final strain increase with the strain rate, while the dynamic compressive strength decreases with increasing freezing temperature. To characterize the energy consumption properties of frozen sandy soil under impact loading, the relationship between the energy density and experimental variables is studied and energy consumption regimes are analyzed. Finally, a constitutive model is developed for predicting the dynamic strength and damage of frozen sandy soil subjected to impact loading. The proposed model is based on the continuum fracture mechanics of microcrack nucleation, growth, and coalescence in order to formulate the evolution of damage. The results reveal that the model effectively describes the relationships between the stress and strain of frozen sandy soil.