Numerical simulation of geotechnical problems based on a multi-phase finite element approach
The development and application of a coupled multi-phase model suitable for the description of a broad range of problems encountered in geotechnics is presented. The proposed formulation is characterized by considering the soil as a multi-phase medium, consisting of a deformable skeleton and the fluid phases water and air filling the pores of the soil. In particular, a three-phase model applicable to the numerical simulation of dewatering of soils by means of compressed air and a two-phase model appropriate for describing water flow in soils under atmospheric conditions or consolidation are addressed.
geotechnics finite element simulation coupled model multi-phase approach porous medium unsaturated soil flow of water/air tunneling under compressed air