| Abstract: | This paper presents the results of an experimental programme to study load oscillation in granular materials. Spherical glass beads were used in the investigation. Cylindrical specimens were compressed under axisymmetric triaxial loading condition at 25,100,250 and 400 kPa confining pressures. The test parameters included: (i) particle size; (ii) gradation (uniform versus non‐uniform specimens); (iii) confining pressure; (iv) loading rate; and (v) specimen density. In general, a slight post‐peak principal stress softening was observed as well as a continuous volume increase (dilation) even at relatively high strains. This appears to be caused by the uniform shape and smooth surface of the spherical particles. Load oscillations were observed in the very small, small, and well‐graded beads at each confining pressure. For the medium beads, the oscillations appeared at high confining pressure (250 and 400 kPa), and they did not appear in the large beads. The influences of the confining pressure, loading rate, particle size, gradation and specimen density on load oscillation are presented and discussed. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
