Desiccation cracking of heterogeneous clayey soil: Experiments, modeling and simulations

Experimental results for the cracking of heterogeneous clay samples during desiccation are reported, and an associated numerical model is developed for comparison. The clay samples contain embedded rigid inclusions to induce heterogeneous strain fields during drying. The crack paths and local strain fields are monitored during the desiccation process using digital image correlation. A numerical phase field model for crack initiation and propagation is introduced and compared with the experimental results. A qualitative agreement is found for the obtained crack paths, whereas discrepancies remain for the local strain fields. A discussion regarding the comparison between the experimental results and model is provided.

Automated summary

Experimental results and a corresponding numerical model for cracking of heterogeneous clay samples during desiccation are reported and compared in this study. Digital image correlation is used to monitor crack paths and local strain fields during the desiccation process. A qualitative agreement is found for crack paths, but discrepancies remain for local strain fields between the experimental and numerical results. Discussions regarding the comparison between experimental results and the model are provided.