Behaviour of Dense Assemblies of Disks and Ellipses - Study of Particle Shape Effect

In this article, the effect of particle shape is examined from the comparison of results of numerically simulated constant volume compression tests carried out on planes assemblies of disks and ellipses with equal porosity and similar gradation and test conditions. The results show that particle shape is a decisive fabric component that contributes directly and indirectly to the strength of assemblies of particles to resist shearing deformation. The results confirm previously established facts that elongated particle shapes favour particle interlocking and create, more easily than ideal spheres, stable clusters of particles through which external loads can be transferred hence resisting higher shearing stresses.