Interface Shear Test
Initial normal stress, σn0 (Pa)
Initial void ratio, e0 (Pa)
Normal stiffness, K (Pa/m)​
Interface thickness, t (m)
Graph Illustration

Stress paths:

Constant Normal Load, CNL
K = 0
The normal stiffness value, K, is zero, leading to a constant normal stress σn during the analysis.
Constant Normal Stiffness, CNS
K = cte
The normal stiffness value, K, is constant in different applications, leading to a variable normal stress σn during the analysis.
Constant Volume, CV
K = ∞
The normal stiffness value, K, can take a very large value, leading to no volume change and variable normal stress σn .