UDSM: Barcelona Basic model

The Barcelona Basic model (BBM) is a Cam-Clay type effective stress model for the behaviour of unsaturated soils. The PLAXIS version of the BBM is defined in terms of Bishop effective stress and suction as stress variables, with an improved yield surface to capture better stress triaxiality both for saturated and unsaturated soils. The most important features of the model consist of the capabilities to model both elastic swelling and irreversible 'collapse' deformation upon wetting, as well as shear strength decrease when suction is reduced. Therefore, the model is most suitable for collapsible and/or moderately expansive soil, such as low plasticity (silt, clayey sand etc.) and granular unsaturated soils. The Barcelona Basic Model was implemented with scientific support from the Polytechnic University Catalunya (UPC) where the model was originally developed. This support is gratefully acknowledged. The model is available in the Advanced and Ultimate tiers with a valid Geotechnical SELECT Entitlement.

Suction in SoilTest

The SoilTest facility in PLAXIS 3D now has the option to account for an initial suction for all the test types. For the General test type, suction increments can be defined per test phase to replicate real life lab tests during which suction is varied. This new option allows users to calibrate model parameters for the more advanced material models in PLAXIS that may be derived from suction-controlled lab tests, like the Barcelona Basic Model. This option is available in the Advanced and Ultimate tiers with a valid Geotechnical SELECT Entitlement.

Reorganisation of Tunnel designer's Reinforcements tab

Due to adding the Cable bolt in PLAXIS 2D’s tunnel designer, the Reinforcements tab in the PLAXIS 3D Tunnel Designer required some small changes. Under the Reinforcements tab’s property tree, a new read only category "Element type" is introduced with the read only option "Rock bolt" selected. Some objects and bolt configuration options have been renamed, fully changing the command and scripting signature.

Performance improvements related to Material Objects

The performance of the new material objects (introduced in the V22 release) has been improved. Significant benefits can be experienced during the creation of materials, interaction with the materials database, and the pre- and postprocessing of calculations.

PLAXIS part of Seequent, The Bentley Subsurface Company

PLAXIS has become part of Seequent, Bentley’s brand for subsurface modelling and analysis applications. As part of this transition, the versioning, logos and splash screens used in various places in the software and installer have seen some minor changes.