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Strain rate dependent strength and stress–strain characteristics of a welded tuff

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Abstract

Results of 61 uniaxial compression tests on the welded Topopah Spring tuff are presented. The tests were carried out under constant strain rates at room temperature. Stress–strain analysis indicates that dilatancy and compaction start at about 50% of ultimate strength. A sudden stress drop occurs at about 90% of the ultimate strength, which indicates the onset of specimen failure. Both strength and peak axial strain decrease with strain rate as power functions. Based on the strain rate dependence of strength and peak axial strain, it is inferred that the elastic modulus is strain rate dependent. A relationship between stress, axial strain, and axial strain rate is developed. The parameters in this relation are estimated using multivariate regression to fit stress–axial strain–strain rate data.

Résumé

Les résultats de 61 essais de compression simple sur les ignimbrites de Topopah Spring sont présentés. Les essais ont été réalisés avec une vitesse de déformation constante à la température du laboratoire. L’analyse en contrainte-déformation montre que la dilatance ou la contractance commence à environ 50% de la résistance ultime. Une chute brutale de résistance apparaît à environ 90% de la résistance ultime, ce qui rend compte de l’initiation de la rupture de l’échantillon. A la fois la résistance ultime et la déformation au pic de résistance diminuent avec la vitesse de déformation suivant des fonctions puissance. Sur la base de ces observations, il est conclu que le module d’élasticité dépend de la vitesse de déformation. Une relation entre contrainte, déformation axiale et vitesse de déformation axiale est mise en évidence. Les paramètres intervenant dans cette relation sont estimés à partir des techniques de régression linéaire sur les données expérimentales.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank Mr. Jaime Gonzalez, DOE Contract Manager, Mr. Rick Blitz for experimental work and for valuable discussions and Dr. Mark Board for most helpful discussions and suggestions. This paper was prepared by the University of Nevada Reno pursuant to a Cooperative Agreement fully funded by the United States Department of Energy, and neither University and Community College System of Nevada nor any of its contractors or subcontractors nor the United States Department of Energy, nor any person acting on behalf of either: (a) Makes any warranty or representation, express or implied, with respect to the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of the information contained in this report, or that the use of any information, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this report may not infringe privately-owned rights; or (b) Assumes any liabilities with respect to the use of, or for damages resulting from the use of, any information, apparatus, method or process disclosed in this report. Reference herein to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Energy. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the United States Department of Energy.

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  1. Vector Engineering, Inc., 143E Spring Hill Drive, Grass Valley, CA, 95945, USA

    L. Ma

  2. Department of Mining Engineering, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA

    J. J. K. Daemen

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  1. L. Ma
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  2. J. J. K. Daemen
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Correspondence to L. Ma.

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Ma, L., Daemen, J.J.K. Strain rate dependent strength and stress–strain characteristics of a welded tuff. Bull Eng Geol Environ 65, 221–230 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-005-0038-6

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