Calibration of Parameters for a single Hardening Model

A single hardening model (proposed by Lade and co-workers) is calibrated using 12 model parameters, which can be determined from one isotropic consolidation test (with unloading and reloading), and three triaxial shear tests; however, the process of calibrating these parameters is relatively complex. In this paper, the authors have calibrated this model for the purpose of predicting the experimentally observed 3-D mechanical behavior of Kaolin clay through advanced laboratory testing. During this calibration process, several interesting issues were observed for the specific Kaolin clay used in the study. These issues are discussed in light of the concepts behind relevant calibration parameters and their significance to the model predictions. Based on the definition of plastic work, a modified approach for calibrating the work hardening parameters is presented and shows some promise. Various aspects of this model are also presented in the context of predicting the mechanical behavior of soils including the sensitivity of the model parameters over the prediction of the complex mechanical behavior under generalized state of stress/strain.