Force transfer mapping in cemented granular materials under applied boundary loads

Understanding the micro-scale processes that act during the loading of cemented granular materials (e.g., sandstones) is yet to be achieved. Recent developments have proven that neutron diffraction scanning during in-situ loading tests can become an important tool to this end. This proposal is a continuation of RB1320418, in which a successful step was made regarding the investigation of the distribution evolution of forces/stresses that lead to sample failure. Through a new experimental approach using a prototype load cell, neutron diffraction mapping of the grain-strains of a sand sample was made. In this experiment the same technique will be used for cemented sand specimens to reveal the contribution of cementation in the overall strain distribution evolution.