Plasticity in Geomechanics

This lecture covers the fundamental concepts of plasticity in geomechanics, focusing on constitutive modeling, yield criteria, and the application of elastic-perfectly plastic models in analyzing gravity-fissured dams and underground powerhouses. The instructor explains the principles of Von Mises, Drucker-Prager, and Mohr-Coulomb models, discussing their formulations and graphical representations. Through case studies, the lecture demonstrates the practical use of plasticity theory in assessing the stability of structures under varying conditions, such as seasonal temperature changes and seismic events.