Shear resistance evolution of geogrid-aggregate interfaces under direct shear: insights from 3D DEM simulations

This paper presents a mesoscopic evaluation of the shear resistance evolution of geogrid-aggregate interfaces subjected to direct shear loading. A three-dimensional discrete element method model was developed based on experimental data. The tensile response of geogrid were simulated through a series of calibration tests. Aggregate with complex particle shapes were simulated to accurately capture the interlocking effect among aggregates based on the real particle surface. The individual shear resistance components were quantified based on particle displacement field and contact distribution characteristics. The influences of aperture-aggregate size ratio and geogrid stiffness on the shear resistance components are discussed. The results indicate that the peak value of shear resistance component follows a descending order from frictional resistance of aggregate, to passive resistance of transverse rib, and to geogrid-aggregate interface frictional resistance. During the shear process, the frictional resistance of aggregate becomes active first, followed by the geogrid-aggregate interface frictional resistance, and then the development of passive resistance of transverse ribs starts with a certain lag. Optimizing the geogrid-aggregate size ratio and utilizing geogrids with higher rib stiffness could enhance the passive resistance of transverse ribs but would not significantly affect the geogrid-aggregate interface frictional resistance and frictional resistance of aggregate.