Viscoplastic Models for Geomaterials and Ceramics

Viscoplastic behavior and its constitutive modeling are fundamental issues in the mechanics and engineering applications of geomaterials and ceramics. The viscoplastic behavior is controlled by complicated micro-mechanisms of these materials. Viscoplastic models play an important role in the mechanical analyses of these materials during construction and long-term service of geomaterials, as well as the production and use of ceramics products. Based on test results and observations, researchers have developed viscoplastic equations and models for clays, rocks, and ceramics in the past century, which are reviewed in this chapter. The chapter aims to cover some basic viscoplastic models of these materials, including the key concepts, equations, and applications for interested readers.