A Simple Updated Constitutive Model of EPS Geofoam

This paper describes an updated and simple EPS constitutive model proposed by the authors for modelling EPS geofoam in geotechnical applications where geofoam-structure as well as geofoam-soil interactions occur. The work is based on an earlier model developed by the authors, which has since been modified to reflect recent experimental results suggesting the admissibility of the Drucker-Prager failure criterion in lieu of the Mohr-Coulumb criterion. The updated model is developed within the framework of classical elasto-plasticity, with the inclusion of strain hardening, a hardening rule defined in terms of equivalent deviatoric plastic strain and a non-associate flow rule. It is simple to calibrate (with 6 independent parameters determined from triaxial tests) and is relatively easy to incorporate into numerical codes. The updated model has been calibrated against results from a series of "drained" triaxial tests performed on the EPS geofoam. The steps required for calibration are described in the paper. It has been also been shown to accurately reproduce the responses of the material under shearing, in particular, of the shear-contraction post yield behaviour typical of geofoam material. The model will be applicable for a variety of geotechnical applications such as for the modelling of EPS geofoam inclusion behind retaining structures and as a buffer material to mitigate against dynamic loading and vibrations.