In the previous tutorial example (Mat_001b) the SR4 hardening law (applicable also to other Cam-Clay type models) is reviewed and guidelines on how to define the hardening parameters using the SR4 analytical model are provided. In the present tutorial example the aim is to learn how to define the Hardening Law using the user-defined hardening model. In such model the user provides the value of pre-consolidation pressure (pc) and tensile intercept (pt) as a function of the plastic volumetric strain (εvp) in a table input format. Hence this model provides flexibility enabling the user to represent any target compaction trend by means of mechanical compaction at the cost of requiring more effort in defining the input values during calibration. It should be noted that a current limitation is that a material defined with the user-defined hardening model cannot be assigned diagenesis reactions (the code will return an error).

 

Before undertaking the present tutorial example the user is assumed to be familiar with the SR4 model parameters ( see Overview of SR4 Model) and have reviewed the Mat_001b example beforehand.

 

In Case01 the fundamentals behind the definition of the hardening values in a table format will be addressed as well as an step by step guide on how to calibrate the hardening parameters to consider a target Athy normal compaction trend. In Case02 a facies based material database is provided and an step by step guide will help the user on defining new material characterisations using such database.

 

 

Case 1 Definition of SR4 User-Defined Hardening Table

 

Case 2 Facies Mixture-based Material Database