Identification and analysis of force chain structures in photoelastic experiments

Abstract

The mechanical properties of granular system are more complicated, compared with that of other systems. It is difficult to describe the interactions between particles. The force chain structures, as a result of particle contacts, can be showed directly by photoelastic experiments. In order to have a better understanding of mechanical properties and natural qualities in particle material, it is of great importance and convenience to study the characteristics of force chain distribution in granular systems. This work carries out a series of photoelastic experiments simulating certain geological conditions, provides an access to identify and extract the force chains using the ArcGIS software, and compares the analysis results with the experimental phenomena. It shows that the force chain structure can be presented clearly and completely after identified by ArcGIS. The evolution process of force chains, obtained through this method, confirms to the experimental expression. It is a significant attempt to analyze results of photoelastic experiments.