A Simple Bounding Surface Plasticity Model for Overconsolidated Clays: Theory, Validation, and Numerical Implementation

ABSTRACT Constitutive models with concise theoretical formulations and readily measurable parameters are vital for practical geotechnical engineering applications. This study presents a novel constitutive model for overconsolidated (OC) clays by integrating bounding surface plasticity theory into the modified Cam Clay (MCC) framework without introducing any additional model parameters. The proposed model enhances the MCC model in both strength and deformation predictions by (i) introducing the overconsolidation parameter into the dilatancy relation, enabling a more accurate representation of the shear dilatancy behavior of OC clays, and (ii) incorporating the Hvorslev envelope into the plastic modulus interpolation function to capture the strain‐softening behavior and peak strength. The model's performance is validated through element‐level simulations of compression and extension tests on clays, encompassing a broad range of overconsolidation ratios (OCRs) and stress paths. Additionally, the model is implemented in the ABAQUS finite element platform using an explicit integration scheme with automatic error control. Its practical applicability is demonstrated through the simulation of a centrifuge plate loading test on an OC clay foundation, with numerical results showing strong agreement with experimental data.