A modified scale method based on fractal theory for rockfill materials

Abstract

To study the theoretical scale effect of rockfill materials, fractal theory was included in the grading design. Next, the existing scale methods were discussed relative to fractal theory and normalised to obtain a unified formula. A modified scale method was suggested based on fractal theory and a critical fractal dimension D_c concept was proposed. The application of the suggested scale method was verified regarding the minimum porosity, which indicated that the suggested scale method was rational. The following improvements were made relative to existing scale methods: confusion in the selecting scale method was eliminated, and the fine grain contents were determined theoretically to reflect the influence of the maximum diameter d_max during grading. The results of this study provide a solid foundation for studying the scale effects of rockfill materials with fractal theory.

Keywords:

• scale effect
• scale method
• rockfill material
• fractal theory
• particle flow code in two dimensions(PFC2D)

Acknowledgements

The authors gratefully acknowledge the support of the “Eleventh Five” National Science and Technology Support Project (2008BAB29B02).