Abstract: Apexes of the MohrCoulomb yield locus in the πplane might result in unexpected singularities in numerical analyses. A shape function, g(θσ), which smoothens the angular hexagon in the MohrCoulomb criterion, is adopted. The revised yield locus becomes a rounded hexagon in the πplane. The paper also compares the differences of the locus in the πplane using the proposed g(θσ) method and the Spatially Mobilized Plane (SMP) criterion. The Lode angle is considered in a new CamClay model modified by the g(θσ) method. A finite element analysis using this constitutive model is performed on an instrumented experimental embankment in Australia. The vertical and lateral deflection of the soils and the pore water pressure dissipations are discussed in the paper.

Key words: MohrCoulomb Criterion； g(&theta, _&sigma, )method； Consolidation； Mandel effect