Abstract:
The effect of suction in the compressibility of rockfill along different stress paths is studied
using the discrete element method. Rockfill particles are modeled as breakable clumped
particles and reasonable consistency is found between the predicted and experimental results.
The simulation highlights the influence of suction and the particle breakage on the mechanical
behaviour of the assembly. The capabilities of the discrete element method are also explored to
study the microscopic interactions that occur during the oedometer tests.