Abstract. Concrete-to-concrete friction contributes in many cases to the stability of a structure. At different scales, the slope stability of rock joints is deeply influenced by the surface morphology and shows a marked sizedependence. In this paper, the closure and sliding-dilatant behaviour of cracks in concrete and rocks is investigated by means of a coupled numerical/experimental approach. These natural interfaces show self-affine properties in the relevant scale range. Attention has been focused on the stress transfer mechanism across the interfaces, showing that the sets of contact points possess the self-similar character of lacunar fractal sets. Scaling laws come into play and the size-effects on the shear strength of rough interfaces, and on their closure deformability, can be explained.
Abstract. Natural sintering in ice is a fundamental process determining mechanical properties of various ice forms. According to the literature, limited data are available about the complex subjects of snow sintering and bond formation. Here, through cold laboratory mechanical tests with a new shear apparatus we demonstrate time-dependent effects of isothermal sintering on interface strengthening at various normal pressures. Measurements showed that interfacial strength evolved rapidly, conforming to a power law (mean exponent ≈ 0.21); higher pressure corresponded to higher initial strength and sintering rates. Our findings are consistent with observations on homogeneous snow, provide unique records essential for slope stability models and indicate the significant importance of normal load on data interpretation.
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