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Bolt connections are widely used in construction and engineering to securely join structural elements. These connections are essential for distributing loads across components and ensuring that structures can withstand external forces. The planned failure of these bolts is of great importance in steel safety barriers (SSBs), as it can directly influence the height of the guardrail and the working width of the SSB during the vehicle impact, which consequently affects the crash consequences. Therefore, it is of great importance to determine the bolt response until fractures under different strain rates. For that purpose, experimental tensile tests of low-strength steel rods of grade 4.6 were conducted at various strain rates (0.0025–25 s−1) until fracture. Test specimens were photographed during the testing, and by means of image processing, input data for calculation of true stresses and strains up to the point of fracture were extracted. Based on the experimental data, material parameters were determined for the Cowper–Symonds model, enabling precise numerical simulations of these connections at various strain rates. A validation study was also performed successfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents an analysis of the relationship between strength parameters determined in the laboratory and the results of a cone penetration test with pore water pressure measurement (CPTU) of waste soils in the "White Seas" area in Cracow. Anthropogenic soil is an alkaline waste formed during the production of soda ash and deposited in the area of the former Solvay Sodium Plant factory in Cracow, Poland. Due to the large area of the land and numerous investment plans and completed buildings, there was a need to identify reliable functional relationships enabling the determination of the strength parameters of these soils based on the results of the CPTU. Statistical analysis showed that the best correlation with the test results was provided by two logarithmic functions in which the dependent variables were the effective friction angle and effective cohesion. The dependent variable for both cases was the corrected cone resistance qt. The functional relationship combined data from labour-intensive, long-lasting and costly laboratory measurements with quick and less expensive measurements, i.e., in situ CPTUs. The obtained relationships enable the determination of the strength properties of the subsoil of these anthropogenic soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of nanomaterials on soil strength parameters. This project is carried out according to laboratory tests to determine the impact of nano-silica on the compressive strength and plasticity properties of soil. This project covers the operation of injecting nano-silica into the remoulded soil of Yazd University region, and performing the CPT test as the executive studies in addition to the analysis of nanoparticles by SEM (scanning electron microscope) and AFM (atomic force microscope) images of soil samples. These tests are done for two methods with and without nanomaterials, and then the results are compared. According to the results, nano-silica increases the Plastic Limit (PL) slightly and Liquid Limit (LL) considerably; hence, the addition of nano-silica will increase the Plasticity Index (PI) of soil. Following the increase in nano-silica, the soil compressive strength is also increased; the more the curing time increases, the more the compressive strength will be enhanced. The average rate of increase in compressive strength with time will be increased by increasing the percentage of nano-silica. Based on the results of field and laboratory tests for the injection of nanomaterials and according to silica cementation between soil particles, the nano-silica injection has resulted in the increased CPT strength of soil; hence it is offered as a suitable solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of changes in the phase composition of Al2O3–Si3N4 ceramics that were obtained using the method of mechanochemical solid-phase grinding on their resistance to the process of long-term thermal exposure, accompanied by the processes of oxidation and softening. The relevance of this research consists of determining the influence of the phase composition of ceramics on the change in their strength and thermophysical parameters, on the basis of which, we can draw a conclusion about the optimal composition of composite ceramics that have great prospects in the field of fire-resistant, heat-resistant, or radiation-resistant structural materials. During this study, the dynamics of the changes in the phase transformations of the xAl2O3–(1−x)Si3N4 ceramics, with variations in the ratio of the components, initiated by the thermal annealing of the samples, was established. According to the assessment of the phase transformations with variations in the ratio of the components, it was found that thermal annealing in an air environment at an Al2O3 concentration in the order of 0.3–0.5 M leads to the formation of an orthorhombic Al2(SiO4)O phase and an elevation in its contribution at concentrations above 0.5 M, which causes a rise in the thermophysical parameters and resistance to high-temperature degradation. During the heat resistance tests, it was found that the formation of the composite ceramics with the Si3N4(SiO2)/Al2(SiO4)O/Al2O3 phase composition results in an increase in the stability of their strength properties when exposed to thermally induced oxidation, which has a negative impact on their resistance to softening and a decrease in hardness. Moreover, the presence of the Al2(SiO4)O phase in the composition of the ceramics causes a slowdown in the processes of thermal oxidation of the Si3N4 phase under prolonged temperature exposure, alongside an increase in the degradation resistance of strength properties by more than 4–7 times, in comparison with the softening data established for single-component ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ketogenic diets (KDs) are an alternative to improve strength performance and body composition in resistance training participants. The objective of this review and meta-analysis is to verify whether a ketogenic diet produces an increase in the strength of resistance-trained participants. We have evaluated the effect of the ketogenic diet in conjunction with resistance training on the strength levels in trained participants. Boolean algorithms from various databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were used. Meta-analyses were carried out, one on the 1-RM squat (SQ), with 106 trained participants or athletes, and another on the 1-RM on the bench press (BP), evaluating 119 participants. We did not find significant differences between the groups in the variables of SQ or BP, although the size of the effect was slightly higher in the ketogenic group. Conclusions: KDs do not appear to impair 1-RM performance; however, this test does not appear to be the most optimal tool for assessing hypertrophy-based strength session performance in resistance-trained participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cement clay interlocking (CCI) hollow bricks have been used as a construction material in many developed and developing countries. Many emerging and underdeveloped nations have utilised cement clay interlocking (CCI) hollow bricks as building materials. In India, Andhra Pradesh local makers prepare these cement clay interlocking (CCI) hollow bricks by simply mixing clay, cement, and sand in a traditional method, without following strict design criteria or rules. Previous research has demonstrated that the mechanical characteristics of CCI hollow bricks gathered from various locations in detailed manner respect to hand books on Civil Engineering as per Indian Standards. Bricks from one region had compressive strengths that were significantly lower than the other region Indian Community Standards. Various methods were employed in this investigation to enhance the mechanical characteristics of CCI bricks. New mix patterns were created with the use of sand, cement, and fly ash in this research paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This paper summarizes the literature available on the behavior of concrete‐filled steel tubular (CFST) columns to evaluate the effect of geometrical properties such as shape of cross‐section, diameter‐to‐thickness ratio, and length‐to‐diameter ratio of CFST columns under axial loading. Then, the impact of different material composition for core concrete and encasing material is concluded for columns under axial loading. The performance of CFST is evaluated in terms of failure modes, ductility, stiffness, and axial compressive strength. For encasing tube, carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum are studied while for core, various concretes such as Normal (NSC) and high strength concrete (HSC), light weight concrete (LWC), recycled aggregate concrete (RAC), expansive concrete (EC), rubber crumb concrete(RuCC), and steel slag concrete (SSC) are covered for review in this paper. Material limitations as provided by various codes for design of composite structures is also mentioned for both tube and core concrete. Failure modes of concrete‐filled tubular(CFT) columns are most affected by geometric properties columns while materials used for concrete and encasing tube do not cause much difference. Though, ductility, axial compressive strength, and stiffness are affected by both geometric and material properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study explores the intricate relationship between the geotechnical and mineralogical properties of lithomargic clays in the Uttara Kannada region of south India. Lithomargic clays, characterized by their unique composition of clay minerals and calcareous content, play a crucial role in the geotechnical behavior of soils. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between the mineralogical composition and engineering characteristics of lithomargic clays, shedding light on their suitability for various construction and infrastructure projects. The research methodology involves a systematic analysis of lithomargic clay samples collected from different locations in the Uttara Kannada region. Geotechnical investigations, including particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, unconfined compressive strength (UCS), California bearing ratio (CBR) and triaxial tests, are conducted to assess the engineering properties of the clays. Concurrently, mineralogical analyses, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), are employed to identify and quantify the clay mineral constituents within the samples. The findings of this study reveal correlations between specific mineralogical features and geotechnical behaviors of lithomargic clays. Understanding these relationships is crucial for predicting the response of these clays to different engineering applications, including slope stability, foundation design and embankment construction. The research contributes valuable insights to the scientific and engineering communities, aiding in the informed utilization of lithomargic clays in geotechnical projects in the Uttara Kannada region and beyond. The outcomes of this investigation, such as the correlation of geotechnical properties with the variation in minerals in various sample locations, enhance our understanding of the complex nature of lithomargic clays, providing a foundation for more sustainable and effective engineering practices in the geologically diverse landscapes of south India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annals of Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW, Forestry & Wood Technology is the property of Wydawnictwo SGGW and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

An industrial by-product known as fly ash is produced when coal is burned for electricity production and is considered an environmental pollutant. A comprehensive fly ash utilisation programme must be implemented to reduce environmental pollution, including numerous factors at different levels. Fly ash's geotechnical qualities, including its specific gravity, permeability, internal angular friction, and consolidation characteristics, make it ideal for structural fill, particularly on clay soils, when building highways and embankments. Much research has been conducted on how fly ash affects soil stability. In order to determine the impact of fly ash addition on soil properties, this inquiry reviewed a few of these papers and conducted a critical assessment. This study also looked at combining fly ash and clay soil. Numerous investigations indicate that fly ash generally improves soil stability, notably when analysing CBR values and soil permeability, and reduces volumetric changes in the soil. The ground becomes compact due to particle size and form and a decrease in volumetric dilatation. Because the additives to the hardened soil do not dissolve, the soil's behaviour continues to be modified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An appreciable quantity of cement is consumed as binder for masonry mortar, which has resulted in cost escalation and high energy consumption in building construction, in addition to contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. On the other hand, disposal of waste lignocellulosic materials as agricultural residues persists as an unsolved technical problem creating environmental pollution. This paper proposes an effective solution for these two critical issues. Coir fiber, when used as a reinforcement material in cement, was found to be effective in enhancing the mechanical properties of the binder. The application of coir fiber reinforcement on strong, moderate, and weak masonry mortars with respect to strength criteria is examined in this study. ANOVA analysis was carried out to examine the level of significance of coir fiber reinforcement on the flexural and compressive strengths of masonry mortar. The findings from the study revealed that 0.5% coir fiber reinforcement enhanced flexural strength of strong mortar by 18%–22%, moderate mortar by 21%, weak mortar by 10%, and compressive strength of strong mortars by 16%–19% by contributing strength in the early curing period. Moreover, coir fiber–reinforced mortars satisfied the compressive strength criteria required of strong mortar (7.5 to 10 N/mm2), moderate mortar (5 N/mm2), and weak (3 N/mm2) mortar for its application as mortar on masonry walls in accordance with Indian standards. The strength of masonry in compression, flexure, and shear determines how well masonry operates structurally. Cement-based structures are strong in compression but are prone to shrinkage cracks over a span of 30 years due to its weakness in tension. Flexural strength is an indirect indicator for measuring tension. Coir fiber imparts tensile strength to the matrix when used as reinforcement in cement mortar. Fiber networking dissipates the tensile stresses that develop in mortar during flexure and would bridge the gap in a better way. This prolongs the life of buildings and maintains ecological equilibrium by preventing the need for periodic repair and maintenance, which reduces cost, time, and labor. The use of fibers in mortar for plastering is found to be more beneficial in enhancing the strength of a masonry structure than adding fibers to blocks. Coir fiber content of 0.25% and 0.5% (10 mm length) by weight of cement was found to be effective at enhancing the early flexural strength of cement mortar. Coir fiber–reinforced plaster cement can be made available ready to use in bags of 25 or 50 kg for a crack-free plastered surface on ceilings and internal and external walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experimental testing and analysis of strength and deformation characteristics of hydrate reservoirs is an integral part of natural gas hydrate exploitation. However, studies so far have failed to deeply explore samples from the South China Sea. Especially, there is a lack of a simple and applicable method to estimate their mechanical behaviors. Thus, based on test data, an improved Duncan-Chang model is established in this paper to characterize the strength and deformation of reconstituted samples with various hydrate saturation and stress states from this area. This model can accurately describe the strainhardening characteristics, and failure strength is estimated by the improved Drucker-Prager criterion with high fitting accuracy. The initial elastic modulus and failure ratio are given by the proposed empirical models, which are obtained from experimental data and fitting methods. Generally, this model has several advantages including simple structure, favorable performances, and a limited number of model parameters. Therefore, it could be widely used in strength and deformation analysis. This study can support the prevention and control of geological risks during natural gas hydrate exploitation in the South China Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myokines represent important regulators of muscle metabolism. Our study aimed to explore the effects of a cyclical ketogenic reduction diet (CKD) vs. a nutritionally balanced reduction diet (RD) combined with regular resistance/aerobic training in healthy young males on serum concentrations of myokines and their potential role in changes in physical fitness. Twenty-five subjects undergoing regular resistance/aerobic training were randomized to the CKD (n = 13) or RD (n = 12) groups. Anthropometric and spiroergometric parameters, muscle strength, biochemical parameters, and serum concentrations of myokines and cytokines were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of intervention. Both diets reduced body weight, body fat, and BMI. Muscle strength and endurance performance were improved only by RD. Increased musclin (32.9 pg/mL vs. 74.5 pg/mL, p = 0.028) and decreased osteonectin levels (562 pg/mL vs. 511 pg/mL, p = 0.023) were observed in RD but not in the CKD group. In contrast, decreased levels of FGF21 (181 pg/mL vs. 86.4 pg/mL, p = 0.003) were found in the CKD group only. Other tested myokines and cytokines were not significantly affected by the intervention. Our data suggest that changes in systemic osteonectin and musclin levels could contribute to improved muscle strength and endurance performance and partially explain the differential effects of CKD and RD on physical fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas production by depressurization can significantly increase the effective stress in hydrate-bearing sediments. Therefore, strength and deformation characteristics of sediments under high effective confining pressure should be fully understood before large-scale extraction. In this study, a series of triaxial tests on artificial methane hydrate-bearing specimens were conducted under effective confining pressures of 0.2–20 MPa, and the effects of effective confining pressure and hydrate saturation on the strength parameters and the stress–dilatancy characteristics were discussed. The results demonstrate that the strength and stiffness of hydrate-bearing sediments increase with increasing effective confining pressure. Shearing under high effective confining pressure leads to significant breakage of host particles, which is independent of the hydrate saturation. The increase in the effective confining pressure decreases the internal friction angle while increasing the cohesion of hydrate-bearing sediments. By linking the effective confining pressure and hydrate saturation with strength parameters of Mohr–Coulomb criterion and Drucker–Prager criterion, the strength of sediments in a high range of effective stress can be accurately predicted. With increasing effective confining pressure, the shear–dilation transfers to shear–contraction, the critical stress ratio gradually decreases to attain a constant value, and the effects of hydrate saturation and effective stress on the dilatancy characteristics gradually become less notable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the behavior of a silty clay stabilized with 3, 6, 9, and 12 % of ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), respectively, and 1 % of quicklime used as an activator. The influence of the composite (Quicklime - GGBS) on the immediate behavior of the silty clay is studied by examining the Atterberg limits, the maximum dry density, the optimum moisture content, and the immediate bearing index. The evolution, at different curing periods (1, 7, and 28 days), of the mechanical characteristics of the treated soil, namely unconfined compressive strength, cohesion, and internal angle of friction is also studied. The increase, up to a dosage of 9%, of the GGBS content, leads to an increase in the optimum moisture content, the immediate bearing index, the unconfined compressive strength, and shear strength parameters. Paradoxically, a decrease in the plasticity index and the maximum dry density was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mixing cement and soil is a traditional technique used to improve their mechanical properties. Other studies proposed a rational dosage methodology for soil-cement mixtures. This method is based on the void-cement ratio and aimed at obtaining a particular strength level. The present study evaluated the validity of the void-cement ratio (η/Civ) and analysed the stress – strain – strength behaviour of aeolian dune sand from Natal, Brazil, mixed with cement. Isotropically consolidated drained triaxial compression tests (CID-C) were conducted with moulded samples containing 0.0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% cement by weight of dry soil. Void ratios corresponded to three conditions of relative density: loose, medium and dense, with confining stresses of 50, 100, 200 and 300 kPa. The effect of void ratio, cement content and void-cement ratio on the stress-strain-strength behaviour of the mixtures was determined. The results showed that the void-cement ratio is an appropriate parameter to assess the effective strength of the cement-sand mixture studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slope failure is a recurring natural hazard in the western margin of the Main Ethiopian Rift and especially around the Debre Sina area. To minimize the damage caused by failure events, a detailed investigation of landslide-prone areas identified using numerical modelling plays a crucial role. The main aim of this study is to assess the stability of slopes and to evaluate and compare safety factors calculated by the different available numerical methods. Stability analyses of slopes prone to different types of failures were performed with different techniques. The stability was assessed for slopes of complex geometry composed of aphanitic basalt, porphyritic basalt, tuff, and colluvium (poorly sorted clayey sand to silty sand) using the limit equilibrium method and the shear strength reduction method based on finite elements. Furthermore, numerical analysis was done under static and pseudo-static loading using the horizontal seismic coefficient to model their stability during a seismic event. Satellite images were used to select failure-prone slopes based on slope properties and identified past landslides, as well as to derive structural and geological information for the numerical models. The slope stability analysis indicates that the studied slopes are unstable, and any small-scale disturbance will further reduce the factor of safety and cause failure. The slope stability of landslide prone hills in the study area strongly depends on the saturation conditions and the seismic load. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the geomechanical parameters is necessary for field planning and development. Two of the most critical parameters used to describe the rock strength are the tensile (Ts) and the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS). Measuring these two parameters in the lab is time-consuming. Consequently, non-destructive methods have been developed to predict these parameters fast and reliable. Field drilling data can be reliable, continuous, and rapid technology in predicting UCS and Ts. Herein, an artificial neural intelligence network (ANN) predicts Ts and UCS from actual drilling data collected from two fields in the Middle East. The data include rate of penetration (ROP), weight on bit (WOB), torque (T), drilling fluid injection rate (Q), and the standpipe pressure (SPP). Several sensitivity analyses were conducted to optimize the models' parameters and inputs, followed by extracting the weights and biases for developing ANN-based relations for Ts and UCS. The results showed that the ANN was highly accurate during the training phase in predicting UCS with an AAPE of 0.28%, and Ts with an AAPE of 0.28%. The developed correlation effectively predicted Ts and UCS for an average AAPE of 0.59 % during the testing phase and only 0.65 % for the validation data set for both parameters. This method provides a real-time effective tool for predicting the strength parameters in continuous, fast, and reliable measurements from the drilling field data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The subject of this paper is the evaluation of the use of waste material, which is the native soil. On the example of the base ground taken from the village of Lipie (Podkarpackie voivodeship), soil-aggregate mixtures were prepared with a different degree of addition of natural aggregate. The study analysed the quantitative and qualitative parameters of the prepared mixtures and assessed their physical and mechanical properties to determine their suitability for the construction of nfrastructural facilities. It should be noted that most specifications recommend the use of primarily aggregate mixtures. The paper presents the results of a study analysing the effect of aggregate admixture to the native soil on selected physical and strength properties of the mixtures developed. The obtained results confirmed the validity of research on the use of soil-aggregate mixtures for construction purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this research is to study the failure behavior of cement-fiber-treated sand under triaxial direct tension condition tests. Thus, a new loading system and triaxial cell was designed and built for tensile loading. Samples were prepared with content cement of 3 and 5% (dry wt.) of the sand, while two types of polypropylene fibers 0.024 m in length and 23 μm and 300 μm thick were added at 0.0% and 0.5% (dry wt.) of the sand and cement mixture. After a seven-day curing period, the samples were loaded under triaxial direct tension tests under confining pressures of 100, 200, and 300 kpa in drained conditions. Stress-strain behavior, changes in volume and energy absorbed by cement-fiber reinforced sand were measured and compared with the results of other studies. Adding fibers resulted in reduced peak deviatoric stress and increased residual deviatoric stresses of the cement-fiber reinforced sand, with changes from brittle to ductile behavior. The initial stiffness and stiffness at 50% maximum tensile stress of the samples is decreased with the addition of fibers and with an increase in fiber diameter, the reduction rate of this stiffness is more evident. The absorbed energy for fibers with a thickness of 23 μm is less than fibers with a thickness of 300 μm. The effect of adding fibers to strength parameters showed that the cohesion intercept decreases, while the internal friction angle increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant increase in effective stress can be induced in hydrate-bearing reservoirs when the depressurization method is applied. A series of drained triaxial shear tests were performed on hydrate-bearing sediments with various hydrate saturations to investigate their mechanical characteristics under effective confining pressures of up to 20 MPa. The results show that significant particle crushing of the host sand occurs during shearing under high pressures, and there is no remarkable effect of hydrate saturation on the degree of particle breakage. As the effective confining pressure increases, the stress–strain curves of the hydrate-bearing specimen transformed from strain-softening to strain-hardening. The peak stress ratio and internal friction angle of the sediments gradually decrease and tend to be constant with the increased confining stress, whereas the cohesion in hydrate-bearing sediments exhibits an increasing tendency. The critical state line (CSL) of hydrate-bearing sediments in the e-lnp′ space under low-to-high effective confining pressures intersects with the normal consolidation line under the same hydrate saturation. Furthermore, the CSL moves upward and rotates clockwise as the hydrate saturation increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Sciencepaper is the property of China Sciencepaper and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Based on the triaxial test results of 30 types of rocks, by analysing the confining pressure function and defining a new plastic internal variable, the evolution laws of the strength parameters and shear dilation angle with a defined plastic internal variable are studied, and the corresponding evolution models are established. First, the complete stress-strain curves of 30 types of rocks are collected from published literature; from these curves, the critical equivalent plastic strains under different confining pressures are extracted. With the confining pressure and critical equivalent plastic strain data of the 30 types of rocks, fitting is performed for 23 different functions. The results demonstrate that the three-parameter allometric power-type function is the best to serve as the confining pressure function to define the plastic internal variable. Second, the strength and plastic strain data of the 30 types of rocks are extracted and transformed into the strength and plastic internal variable data. By analysing the evolution laws of the strength parameters considering the plastic internal variable, the Gaussian function is adopted to uniformly characterise the variation in the strength parameters with the plastic internal variable. Third, the shear dilation angle, confining pressure and plastic strain data of the 30 types of rocks are extracted and transformed into shear dilation angle, confining pressure and plastic internal variable data. By analysing the evolution law of the shear dilation angle considering the confining pressure and the plastic internal variable, a negative exponential function is adopted to uniformly characterise the nonlinear evolution of the shear dilation angle. Finally, the proposed evolution models of the strength parameters and the shear dilation angle are integrated into ABAQUS. By comparing the simulated complete stress-strain curves with the experimental curves of the different rock types, it is verified that the proposed models can be used to correctly simulate the nonlinear deformation and failure of different rock types. This research overcomes the shortcomings of the existing models and has wide application prospective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the effects that the spatial variability of a soil's undrained shear strength has on lateral wall movements and ground surface settlements when performing a deep excavation stability analysis. A random finite-element method is employed to statistically assess a deep excavation. A case study based on an actual deep excavation project in Bangkok's subsoils was used to validate the methodology. The two-dimensional spatial variability of the undrained shear strength in the clay layers of Bangkok's subsoil is simulated using the random field theory and Monte Carlo simulation. The Mohr–Coulomb model is used to predict lateral wall movements and ground surface settlements, while the stability analysis of the deep excavation is evaluated by the factor of safety using the strength reduction approach. The results show that spatial variability highly affects the distribution of lateral wall movements and ground surface settlements, as well as the scatter of the factor of safety corresponding to progressing stages of excavation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple concrete - based structure model is proposed by developing it from nano to macro structure. In this model, the structure is divided into four levels and each level is represented by a parametric model. The parameters of the four based structures are identified, in terms of elastic modulus (EM) and poisson's ratio at any time period (t) at Calcium silicate hydrates (CSH), cement paste, mortar and concrete levels. Then, by integrating the proposed model with Bazant - Baweja (B3) model, the compressive strength (CS) and EM of concrete at different curing periods is estimated. Further, it is analyzed and validated by other international models such as B3 model alone, Comite Euro - International Du Beton (CEB) model and Indian standards (IS) method. Few tests were done to investigate the CS of concrete with the inclusion of 25% fly ash (fa) and varying ratios of waste foundry sand (WFS) - 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%. The results are compared with the obtained values by other models and validated with the experimental results. It is found that the proposed model (PM) i.e., Multiscale modeling (MS) can be used reliably integrated with the other models and builds the interaction between the various matrix to estimate and study the strength parameters of the concrete. MS is a new technique which is based on the mathematical formulation, it doesn't require any earlier data about the mechanical properties of the concrete except the intrinsic values of the cement-based materials and mix details to evaluate the strength of the concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Curing is the process of maintaining hardened concrete under moist condition. Curing must be undertaken for reasonable period of time, to ensure that the concrete achieves its potential strength and durability. Efficient and uninterrupted curing contributes to the superior quality of concrete. This paper aims to compare the strength parameters of M40 and M25 grade concrete under various methods of curing. For this study, we adopted curing by Immersion and Surface Curing methods. We also adopted Membrane Curing, in which the curing would be done by the application of pigmented emulsions of linseed oil on the concrete surface. Finally, after the concrete specimens have undergone curing for a certain period of time, they are tested for strength parameters such as Compressive Strength and Flexural Strength and the conclusions are drawn from it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex distribution of gas hydrate in sediments makes understanding the mechanical properties of hydrate-bearing sediments a challenging task. The mechanical behaviors of hydrate-bearing interlayered sediments are still poorly known. A series of triaxial shearing tests were conducted to investigate the strength parameters and deformation properties of methane hydrate-bearing interlayered sediments at the effective pressure of 1 MPa. The results indicate that the stress-strain curves of hydrate-bearing interlayered sediments are significantly different from that of hydrate-bearing sediments. The peak strength, Young's modulus, initial yielding modulus, and failure mode are deeply affected by the methane hydrate distribution. The failure behaviors and mechanism of strain softening and hardening patterns of the interlayered specimens are more complicated than those of the integrated specimens. This study compares the different mechanical behaviors between integrated and interlayered specimens containing gas hydrate, which can serve as a reference for the prediction and analysis of the deformation behaviors of natural gas hydrate reservoirs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method is proposed in order to estimate the shear strength of schistosity planes in slate in terms of Mohr–Coulomb cohesion and internal friction angle. The procedure consists in carrying out the Brazilian method under different loading-foliation angles, for which experimental tests were achieved in slates from the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula (Spain). The experimental fracture patterns were analytically studied and justified by simulating the stress field in the discontinuity planes contained in the whole sample, taking into account the first failure registered in the tests. By combining experimental and analytical studies and a procedure based on the representation of the threshold state of stresses—in the elastic regime—in the failure plane, it is possible to estimate the foliation's strength envelope through a lineal adjustment according to the Mohr–Coulomb criterion and, thus, to characterize the layering. Finally, the proposed procedure was validated by the direct shear test. The cohesion and the internal friction angle obtained with this convenctional test were very close to that calculated by the proposed method, verifying the methodology developed by the authors. This procedure may be interesting in various engineering applications, either in the study of the properties of cleavage in slate, which is commonly used as an industrial rock, or in dam foundations, underground excavations and slope engineering, since one of the main failures in civil engineering is due to sliding along weak planes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defining relationships among the soil parameters and strength properties have become a popular research topic among the soil mechanics researchers in recent years. As conducting laboratory tests are quite tiresome and time-consuming, investigating interconnection and correlation among the soil parameters using collected data will help to understand and predict the characteristics of soil effortlessly. This research aims at stating regression and product moment correlation analysis between the strength parameters and index properties of the soils of Karnaphuli river tunnel project site. Around 120 borings were done in that site to determine both the index and strength properties of the soil in the laboratories. In this paper, multiple linear regression analysis was developed for the cohesion and liquid limit along with the collected explanatory variables and correlation analysis was done to quantify the direction and strength of the linear association. This equation supports to adopt different characteristics of the soils of Karnaphuli River and additionally a statistical significance of correlation among different soil parameters have also been unfolded. Finally, the equation is compared with some of commonly used classical soil mechanics equation to determine the acceptability of this correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the deterioration of strength parameters of sandstone under the action of dry-wet cycles in acid and alkaline environment, laboratory tests were conducted on the sandstone specimens for 1, 3, 6 and 10 dry-wet cycles in the solutions with a pH value of 4, 7 and 9, respectively. With the strength data recorded after each cycle, the Mohr-Coulomb strength criterion parameters and the Hoek-Brown strength criterion parameters were obtained. First, the rock deterioration was briefly analyzed. Then, the failure envelopes and the failure surface on theπ plane at different pH values after different cycles were graphed. The results show that the parameters decrease with the increase in dry-wet cycles. The deterioration is most serious when the number of cycles is small, and then becomes moderate. In addition, the deterioration coefficient of the sandstone is the largest in acidic environment (pH = 4), followed by that in alkaline environment (pH = 9) and that in neutral environment (pH = 7). The deterioration effects of drying and wetting on the following parameters are as follows: fitting compressive strength > cohesion > material constant > internal friction angle. When the pH value of the soaking solution changes from 7 to 4, the deterioration coefficients of the fitting compressive strength and cohesion rise by 30%, while those of the material constant and internal friction angle rise by 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Scientiarum Polonorum. Formatio Circumiectus is the property of Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Rolniczego im. Hugona Kollataja w Krakowie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Scientiarum Polonorum. Formatio Circumiectus is the property of Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Rolniczego im. Hugona Kollataja w Krakowie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Engineering Geology / Gongcheng Dizhi Xuebao is the property of Journal of Engineering Geology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A novel robust method for estimating equivalent tunnelling Mohr–Coulomb strength parameters in elastic–plastic or elasto–brittle–plastic media satisfying Hoek–Brown failure criterion is proposed. Based on the best uniform approximation technique, this method consists of explicit and closed-form formulae in terms of elementary functions, making the estimation of equivalent parameters more convenient than other methods. A simple code is provided and a series of benchmark test cases are performed for validation. When the tunnel support is accurately known, the performance estimates of this method are better than estimates of best fitting in an artificial stress range and best fitting in the existing range methods, but not as accurate as the performance of equating model responses method and that proposed by Jimenez et al. However, when the estimation of support pressure is poor, this method is the most robust among all methods. In elasto–brittle–plastic rock mass, the advantage of robustness of this method is even more obvious. Considering both accuracy and robustness, this method can be employed as a preferable alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to research the effects of jute fiber content, fiber length, water content and dry density of reinforced and unreinforced soil on the strength influence mechanism by implementing a series of laboratory tests and analysis. The most efficient fiber reinforcement effects was achieved by means of adding jute fiber with content of 0.6 % and length of 6 mm into expansive soil specimen prepared at maximum dry density and optimum moisture content. The cohesion of reinforced specimens increased first with increasing fiber content and fiber length and then decreased with further increase in fiber content and fiber length. The internal friction angle of reinforced specimens were not affected significantly by fiber content and fiber length. Higher water content reduces the fiber reinforcement effects by means of acting as lubricant in the interface of fiber and soil particles. Fiber reinforcement effects is more prominent for specimens prepared at higher dry density by increasing the effective contact area of fiber/soil. The application prospect of soil reinforcement using natural fiber is impeded by the hydrophilic nature and biodegradability of natural fiber, thus, studies on using chemical additive to do surface treatment for natural fiber are needed to improve the interfacial interaction of fiber/soil so as to widen the application of natural fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of laboratory experiments and PFC numerical simulations for rock-like material specimens containing two unparallel fissures were carried out. On the basis of experimental and numerical results, the stress-strain curves, mechanical properties, AE events, cracking behavior and energy characteristics were analyzed to reveal the macro-mechanical behavior and meso-mechanism of pre-fissured specimens under different loading rates. Investigated results show that: 1) When the loading rate is relatively low, the stress-strain curves show a brittle response. When the loading rate is relatively high, the curve shows a more ductile response. Both of the peak strength and elastic mudulus increase with the increase of loading rate, which can be expressed as power functions. 2) Four crack types are identified, i.e., tensile crack, shear crack, far-field crack and surface spalling. Moreover, the tensile crack, far-field crack and surface spalling are under tensile mechanism, while the shear crack is under shear mechanism. 3) The drops of the stress-strain curves all correspond to the crack initiation or coalescence, which is also linked to a sudden increasing in the accumulated micro-crack curve. 4) Both of the maximum bond force and energy have the similar trend with the increase of loading rate to peak strength, which indicates that the trend of peak strength can be explained by the meso-mechanics and energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examines the three-dimensional hygric and mechanical behavior of oak wood. The moisture equilibrium state, characterized by the sorption isotherms, was obtained from measurements taken during adsorption and desorption cycles. Sorption behavior was analyzed with the Dent theory and compared considering the sorption direction (adsorption/desorption cycle). Sorption parameters were provided for possible numerical applications in hygric material models. The corresponding swelling and shrinkage behavior was examined and characterized by the moisture expansion parameters for all anatomical directions. Orthotropic mechanical material behavior was characterized by determining the elastic engineering (Young's moduli, shear moduli, and Poisson's ratios) and the bending, compressive and compressive shear strength material parameters. Influence of moisture content (MC) on the mechanical material properties was studied using Young's moduli, Poisson's ratios, and the investigated strength parameters. A significant difference between the sorption behavior in adsorption and desorption, known as the hysteresis effect, could be proved. Furthermore, swelling and shrinkage behavior did not show any dependency on the adsorption/desorption cycle. The results confirm the significant influence of MC on the Young's moduli and the strength properties, however, did not validate an influence on the Poisson's ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The present paper discusses an experimental study on shear strength response of unreinforced and reinforced block masses to find out the effect of fully grouted passive bolts on the shear strength parameters of joints in a mass. Direct shear tests were conducted on specimens of large-sized blocky masses, each with a dimension of 750 × 750 × 900 mm. Each blocky mass was assembled by piling elemental blocks of size 150 × 150 × 150 mm. For the reinforced condition, the mass was reinforced with three, five, and nine bolts perpendicular to the shear plane. The tests were conducted at different normal stress levels ranging from 0 to 2 MPa, which are common in rock slopes. Results from the tests show that passive bolts enhance the joint shear strength parameters. The strength enhancement is mainly due to improved interlocking and therefore, enhanced cohesion. The value of enhanced cohesion depends on the bolt area, the ratio of bolt spacing to block size and the strength of the intact material for a given set of steel and grout. A correlation has been established to find out enhanced cohesion for the given joints in the mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zhangmu deposit is a typical soil-rock mixture (S-RM) deposit made up of very complicated inhomogeneous materials containing soil matrix and rock blocks of various sizes. The slope shows evidences of instability phenomena characterized by shallow landslides and several extensive cracks along slide crown, which seriously affects the life of local residents. In order to characterize the mechanical behavior of the deposit with evaluation of the actual strength parameters and permeability while taking into account the influence of the block proportion, seven test points were established for in situ S-RM and constant-head injection tests on a large scale. The results indicated a larger internal friction angle and lower cohesion for S-RM from in situ tests compared to tests results obtained from laboratory testing. Moreover, it was noted that the strength parameters were correlated with the block proportion by weight (WBP) of S-RM, while both internal friction angle and cohesion were observed to be strongly affected by a critical WBP threshold (70 %), which is in agreement with the common S-RM mechanical behavior. Furthermore, permeability increases with WBP increase to more than 70 %, denoting a similar threshold to the findings observed in strength characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Costly and time consuming testing techniques and the difficulties in providing undisturbed samples for these tests have led researchers to estimate strength parameters of soils with simple index tests. However, the paper focuses on estimation of strength parameters of soils as a function of the index properties. Analytical hierarchy process and multiple regression analysis based methodology were performed on datasets obtained from soil tests on 41 samples in Tertiary volcanic regolith. While the hierarchy model focused on determining the most important index properties affecting on strength parameters, regression analysis established meaningful relationships between strength parameters and index properties. The negative polynomial correlations between the friction angle and plasticity properties, and the positive exponential relations between the cohesion and plasticity properties were determined. These relations are characterized by a regression coefficient of 0.80. However, Terzaghi bearing capacity formulas were used to test the model. It is important to see whether there is any statistically significant relation between the calculated and the observed bearing capacity values for model testing. Based on the model, the positive linear correlation characterized by the regression coefficient of 0.86 were determined between bearing capacity values obtained by direct and indirect methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Results of examinations of VKU-17KE0,1 carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic by the acousto-ultrasonic technique are presented here. The initial control parameters of samples produced with a variant ratio of basic components are determined, and the values of the stress wave factor ( SWF) criterion, which is widely used in the United States, are calculated using the peak voltage, weighted ringdown count, and energy integral techniques. The power-spectrum technique proposed at VIAM was also involved in calculation. Correlations of SWF criterion and strength were determined during bending tests of carbon-fiber-reinforced samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rem: Revista Escola de Minas is the property of Rem: Escola de Minas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, the relationship between the properties of the wood and kraft pulp fibers as well as paper characteristics of 27-year-old trees, lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), was assessed. All trees had been grown in Latvia, within the same forest type, Myrtillosa. Wood density, year ring width, chemical composition and cross-sectional cell wall dimensions were measured. Fiber characteristics were determined, and handsheets were made for all samples from unbeaten kraft pulp. The results showed that the amount of latewood had a positive correlation with wood density for both species and with further positive impact on the paper burst index. Also, slight differences in cross-sectional dimensions were observed. Lodgepole pine provided paper with higher burst strength than Scots pine. Since the former is of higher density, less wood per volume is needed to produce a ton of pulp, and results showed a higher pulp yield in the case of lodgepole pine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tensile characteristics of both Al-10Zn and Al-10Zn-0·2In (wt-%) alloys were investigated in the temperature range from 413 to 473 K. The workhardening coefficient, the yield stress, the fracture stress, resilience, toughness and fracture time generally decrease with increasing deformation temperature. On the other hand, the fracture strain and dislocation slip distance increased with increasing deformation temperature. The two observed temperature regions around the transformation temperature (443 K), which characterise the magnitude of variation of these parameters point to two fracture mechanisms activated with 23·2 and 49·4 kJ mol-1 for the low and high temperature regions respectively. Indium addition caused general increase for all the measured strength parameters. The microstructures of the samples under investigation have been examined after stress-strain deformation by X-ray diffraction analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of Engineering Geology & the Environment is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Strength parameters of rock mass are taken as random variables. Based on the reliability theory, an analytical expression of reliability solution for Drucker-Prager criterion is given. The Monte-Carlo method and FORM (first order reliability method) are used to test the correctness of the solution. Some influences of variation of strength parameters on the judging results of Drucker-Prager criterion are discussed by the use of the solution. Conclusions of discussion show that variations of strength parameters have different influences on the reliability probability of Drucker-Prager criterion. When the coefficients of variation of strength parameters are great, their influences on the reliability probability of Drucker-Prager criterion are obvious and can not be neglected. The conclusions of this paper provide a new way for the reliability judgment of yield on rock mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The slopes of open-pit mines are often at risk of failure. To identify this hazard, stability analyses are performed. An important element of these stability analyses is the reliable selection of input parameter values for the calculations. This selection is difficult because the slopes of the open pit are disturbed by mining activities. In such conditions, rheological processes, intensified by weathering, develop in open-pit slopes. This study is aimed at setting the strength parameters for the stability analysis of open-pit slopes with a developed slide process, using the random set method. The study was performed on the example of the open pit of the Bełchatów lignite mine, central Poland. A four-stage methodology, according to the random set method, was proposed. The methodology covered the following: site investigation, sensitivity analyses, shear strength reduction (SSR) analyses using numerical calculations, and probability analyses of the factor of safety (FoS) calculation results. The setting of the input parameters took into account the peak and residual strength parameters for each lithological unit in the physical model of the open-pit slope. Samples for laboratory tests were taken from the cores of nine test boreholes. The sensitivity analysis included all peak and residual strength parameters for each lithological unit in the body. As a result of the sensitivity analysis, specific strength parameters were adopted that would have a great impact upon the results of the calculations. Selected sets of parameter values were then used for the FoS calculations. The resultant FoS values revealed the probable slide planes. The positions of the slide planes were consistent with the interpreted slide surfaces based on the control boreholes and terrain observations. Knowledge of the slide planes positions and the values of the strength parameters enabled the designing of a securing approach for this landslide, and the taking of preventive measures to reduce this risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of Engineering Geology & the Environment is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)