Quantified evaluation of particle shape effects from micro-to-macro scales for non-convex grains

Particle shape plays an important role in both the micro and macro scales responses of a granular assembly. This paper presents a systematic way to interpret the shape effects of granular material during quasi-static shearing. A more suitable shape descriptor is suggested for the quantitative analysis of the macroscale strength indexes and contact parameters for non-convex grains, with special consideration given to the peak state and critical state. Through a series of numerical simulations and related post-processing analysis, particle shape is found to directly influence the strain localisation patterns, microscale fabric distributions, microscale mobilisation indexes, and probability distribution of the normalised contact normal force. Additionally, the accuracy of the stress-force-fabric relationship can be influenced by the average normal force and the distribution of contact vectors. Moreover, particle shape plays a more important role than do the confining pressures in determining the friction angle. Strong force chains and the dilation effect are also found to be strongly influenced by the high confining pressure.