Hierarchical Single‐Surface Model for Static and Cyclic Behavior of Interfaces

A constitutive model based on the hierarchical single surface (HISS) approach and the elastoplasticity theory is proposed here to describe the behavior of interfaces subjected to static and cyclic loading conditions. In the hierarchical scheme, a model describing basic characteristics of the interfaces is modified to include increasingly complex behavior of the interfaces. The proposed model can simulate associative, nonassociative, and strain‐softening behavior during monotonic as well as cyclic loading. The parameters influencing interface behavior are identified using data from laboratory simple shear tests on sand‐steel and sand‐concrete interfaces. A parameter called the interface roughness ratio, R, is defined to quantify roughness for different interfaces. Similarly, a cyclic parameter Ω is introduced to simulate the cyclic volumetric behavior of the interfaces. The proposed model is verified with respect to comprehensive test data on interfaces with different roughnesses, normal loads, initial densities and type of sand, and quasi‐static and cyclic loadings.