Review Article

A Review of Cracking Behavior and Mechanism in Clayey Soils Related to Desiccation

Table 2

Resume of reviewed numerical works on desiccation cracks in soils.

ApproachesReferenceDescriptions

Systems approachesFLAC (fast Lagrangian analysis of continua) computer programKodikara et al. [81]Behavior of curling during desiccation
Finite element methodPouya et al. [82]Crack propagation in an unsaturated porous body
SPLASH conditionsMalésys et al. [83]Prediction of the formation and propagation of crack networks
3D discrete element modelingSima et al. [80]Some of the factors such as the sample thickness, the soil-base interface, micromechanical parameters, and the soil-water characteristics were analyzed in the DEM model
Solid finite elements method:
mesh fragmentation technique
Sánchez et al. [76]3D crack patterns and cracking behaviors
Distinct lattice spring model (DLSM) with a two-phase bond modelGui et al. [40]Significant factors, such as soil particle size, heterogeneity, and boundary conditions.

Tensile stress failure approachesDiscrete element approachPéron et al. [39]Prediction of the time of the occurrence of cracking, as well as the crack pattern
Cohesive crack methodAmarasiri et al. [84]Field desiccation test: crack patterns obtained with time were monitored and documented

Fracture mechanics approachesFracture mechanics
Universal distinct element code (UDEC)
Amarasiri et al. [85]Mode I cracking is modeled and fracture properties of the propagating crack are gathered
Particle discretization scheme Finite element methodHirobe et al. [78]Pattern formation, seamless deformation/fracture analysis
Cohesive fracture methodVo et al. [86]Reproduction of the behaviors observed in the experiment (shrinkage related to drying, crack development).
Hydromechanical model using fracture mechanicsLevatti et al. [87]Cracking process in clayey soils