Development of a multidirectional simple shear testing device

C. J. Rutherford, G. Biscontin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

A new simple shear testing device capable of applying multidirectional loading to soil specimens has been developed. The Texas A&M University multidirectional simple shear (TAMU-MDSS) device provides the ability to apply a large range of shear stresses and complex loading paths, such as figure-eight and circular patterns, to a cylindrical soil specimen confined by a wire-reinforced membrane. The load and torque experienced by the sample are directly measured by a multi-axis load cell installed above the specimen. Backpressure saturation of the specimen is made possible by the devicés ability to apply pressure in the chamber and backpressure to the water lines. Excess pore pressure is measured by a pressure transducer during the shearing phase of the testing. This paper describes the development of the TAMU-MDSS system and the capabilities of the device and presents test results on saturated clay soil specimens subjected to monotonic, unidirectional cyclic, and multidirectional loading.

Original languageEnglish (US)
JournalGeotechnical Testing Journal
Volume36
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Laboratory testing
  • Multidirectional loading
  • Simple shear

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology

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