A finite element method for poro mechanical modelling of geotechnical problems using local second gradient models

In this paper, a new finite element method is described and applied. It is based on a theory developed to model poromechanical problems where the mechanical part is obeying a second gradient theory. The aim of such a work is to properly model the post localized behaviour of soils and rocks saturated with a pore fluid. Beside the development of this new coupled theory, a corresponding finite element method has been developed. The elements used are based on a weak form of the relation between the deformation gradient and the second gradient, using a field of Lagrange multipliers. The global problem is solved by a system of equations where the kinematic variables are fully coupled with the pore pressure. Some numerical experiments showing the effectiveness of the method ends the paper.