Numerical Analyses of Plate Loading Test

A numerical simulation of plate loading test, in order to underlines the size effect on settlements and derived values of geotechnical parameters, is shown. The study is based on the comparison between the results obtained by Finite Element Method (FEM) using the Mohr-Coulomb soil model and by some observations from literature. The obtained numerical results revealed that the subgrade reaction coefficient is strictly dependent on parameters like size of the loaded area and loading magnitude, and thus completely general and generic, and not a fundamental material property of soil that can somehow be determined rationally, as often one claims to be

ASSESSMENT OF THE DYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF PLAIN AND RUBBERIZED CONCRETE

The use of rubber from discarded car tires as an alternative to natural aggregates in concrete may help preventing the complete depletion of natural resources and work towards a sustainable future. Moreover it can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of the construction industry. The assessment of the dynamic properties of a material are very important from the point of view of the energy dissipation capability of the investigated material. This can be determined from the dynamic modulus of elasticity, damping and the loss coefficients of the material. The paper presents the results obtained during an experimental program aimed at assessing the dynamic characteristics of plain and rubberized concrete containing rubber crumbs from discarded car tires. The theoretical background and the investigation methodology are presented with particular application to cylindrical concrete specimens