A numerical analysis of the shear behavior of granular soil with fines

- Fine particles played a vital role in the overall response of granular soil to shearing.
- Liquefaction of silty sand resulted mainly from the removal of fine particles from soil skeleton.
- Interim contraction was followed by fines migrating back to soil skeleton, resulting in dilation.
- Shear loads were mainly carried by large particles through force chains formed at S-L and L-L contacts.
- Fine particles tended to roll and rotate and large particles were prone to slide in soil skeleton.