Shear failure behavior of granular–continuum interfaces

Particulate–continuum interfaces (e.g. soil–concrete, soil–steel, soil–geomembranes) determine the behavior of many geotechnical structures including deep foundations, synthetic impervious liners, trenchless technologies, and an assortment of earth retaining structures. Therefore, proper understanding of the localized shearing mechanisms that govern their behavior is essential if geotechnical design is to improve. This paper presents a summary of recent research on the coupled effect of surface roughness and hardness on interface shear behavior and strength. This was accomplished through performing a series of laboratory tests on a selection of sand–continuum material interfaces and through discrete element modeling of particulate–continuum interfaces.