Laboratory testing as a base for numerical modelling of the high-strength hexagonal wire mesh

This paper presents the results of laboratory testing and Finite Element Method (FEM) modelling of high-strength double-twisted steel hexagonal wire mesh used for constructing gabion cages, slope protection systems, rockfall protection barriers. Gabion cages, filled with soil (usually rock particles) are commonly used in civil engineering (for example, in order to form a retaining wall). Static tensile tests of single wire and double-twisted wire were performed. The stiffness and ultimate tensile strength were examined. Special attention was paid to the double-twist behaviour. The unloading tests were also performed and the range of elastic deformation of both single wire and double-twisted wire were determined. The obtained laboratory results (stress-strain relationships for single wire and double-twisted wire) were included in a numerical model of the repeatable cell of mesh (truss model). The simulation in both directions, parallel and perpendicular to the double twist, was performed. On the basis of the obtained load-strain relationship, an anisotropic membrane model for mesh was proposed and calibrated. The obtained value of tensile strength of the mesh (266 kN/m) is much higher than for other meshes known form literature (30-60 kN/m).