Understanding the mechanical behavior of soils is the cornerstone of all geotechnical research. It lays the basis of our understanding of any geotechnical problem. Whether developing simpler analytical tools or more sophisticated numerical tools, it is essential to know how different soils behave and how they should be modeled. This research area utilizes our well-equipped laboratory and enables us to develop new methods for the analysis of geotechnical structures.
Background
We have been investigating the mechanical properties of soils since the 80s in our laboratory. This includes the research on both static and dynamic strength and deformation properties. Lately, we studied undrained shear strength and its anisotropy, for example, in the FINCONE project. In the MASI project, we will be studying small strain stiffness, behavior in load reversal, and the anisotropy of deformation properties.
Goal
The mechanical behavior of soils is very complicated. It depends on density, stress state, stress history, permeability, the direction of loading, deformation level as well as time and deformation rate, among others. The properties often vary in different directions; i.e., soils are often anisotropic. The properties and the influence of the aspects mentioned above vary considerably from soil to soil. Owing to these complexities, the material models used to describe soil behavior are often rather complicated and soil specific. Therefore, it is important to know which aspects are fundamental for each soil type and what models may be used to describe its behavior.
Contact persons
Tim Länsivaara
Professor
tim.lansivaara [at] tuni.fi
+358 40 765 8085