Determining particulate–solid interphase strength using shear-induced anisotropy

The resistance to shear deformation developed by a granular material layer in contact with a topographically rough natural or manufactured solid material surface is critical to the stability of a variety of composite systems. By using discrete-element method numerical simulations, we show that evolution of fabric and contact force anisotropy at the boundary between the surface and the granular media controls shear behavior. Full mobilization of granular material strength occurs when the contact force anisotropy developed at the interface is equal to the maximum contact force anisotropy of the granular media.