Analytical evaluation of stress-strain test data

An analytical model for deducing the actual stress-strain properties from laboratory test results is discussed. As an illustration, an elastic bilinear material is used for unconfined cylindrical compression test conditions, as simulated with a finite element analysis. The results obtained are applicable for assisting in evaluating measured strength and stiffness properties of some clay soils, concrete test cylinders, concrete cores, and rock cores.The quantitative results of this study can be used for interpreting measured stress-strain data for unconfined compression test conditions. The error in measured results is shown to be influenced by Poisson's ratio, length-to-diameter ratio of the specimen, end condition, and ratio of inelastic modulus to initial elastic modulus. Curves for adjusting the measured results to the theoretical results are presented.Nomenclature D specimen diameter - E _i initial elastic stiffness modulus - E _y elastic stiffness modulus beyond the yield stress, plastic or inelastic modulus - L specimen length - axial strain - _av average strain - _g gage length strain - _y yield strain - Poisson's ratio - compressive stress - _av average stress - _t theoretical compressive stress - _y yield stress - _ym measured stress at the yield strain