Hierarchical Single Surface and the Disturbed State Constitutive Models with Emphasis on Geotechnical Applications

This chapter provides, in a simplified manner, descriptions of the hierarchical single surface (HISS) models for constitutive modelling of solid materials and interfaces. This plasticity-based approach can provide powerful alternative models and options for choosing models for specific factors and needs of the user. In contrast to other models, the HISS models provide a unified procedure that can account for various behavioural features of (geologic) materials and interfaces with the same mathematical framework, and as a result, the procedures of modelling, number of constants, laboratory determination, and implementation are simplified significantly. The models have been validated for a wide range of (geological) materials and interfaces and joints, and have been implemented in non-linear finite element procedures, which are validated with respect to observed behaviour of field problems. The objective herein is to provide a review that can assist in the application of the models. Selected references are provided at the end. *