ABSTRACT
The formulation of the material model forms an important step in obtaining solutions for practical engineering problems and, once established, it can be employed in a numerical solution code suitable for the analysis of geomechanical structures, with given boundary conditions, material zones and loading. The finite element method of analysis has already been widely used for the solution of practical problems, and many suitable programs now exist for obtaining elastic solutions for a wide range of two- or three-dimensional formulation. A more simple approach from the conceptual point of view is to identify ‘equivalent elastic parameters’ relevant to the prevailing average loading conditions and to conduct the response analysis with these, making iterative adjustments until the assumed conditions match those of the calculated response. The presence of pore fluid and the resulting influence of the pore pressure upon the stress-strain response of geomechanical media is well recognised.
