| Abstract: | A biaxial tester was utilized in order to characterize mechanical powder behaviour. Tests were aimed at characterizing the virgin consolidation behaviour of CRM 116 limestone powder, standardized by the Community Bureau of Reference (BCR). The tests indicated that the virgin consolidation behaviour of the powder can be represented by means of topographic maps and surface plots in the principal stress space irrespective of the consolidation stress paths. Resulting strains and bulk densities can also be represented in the same manner. Reloading tests were also carried out on samples consolidated by following different stress paths (consolidation procedures). By applying stresses to the previously consolidated samples and determination of points of initial plastic deformations, the yield surface for each specific type of consolidation was drawn. These tests revealed anisotropic behaviour of the powder, depending on the type of consolidation. |
