Shear Strength Mohr Coulomb

ENGINEERING – GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING CALCULATOR Shear Strength Mohr Coulomb A precise tool.
πŸ“–
What is the Shear Strength Mohr Coulomb & How does it work?

Shear strength is the maximum resistance a soil or rock can offer against sliding along a plane when subjected to shear stress. It is a fundamental parameter in the design of foundations, slopes, and retaining structures.

The Mohr‑Coulomb failure criterion expresses shear strength (\tau) as the sum of cohesion (c) and the product of normal stress (\sigma) with the tangent of the internal friction angle (\phi): \tau = c + \sigma \tan \phi. This linear relationship captures the combined effect of material bonding and frictional resistance.

Engineers use this relationship to evaluate stability, calculate bearing capacity, and design earth‑retaining systems. By inputting site‑specific values for cohesion, normal stress, and friction angle, the model predicts the shear strength that must not be exceeded to avoid failure.

\tau = c + \sigma \tan \phi
\tau = shear strength, c = cohesion, \sigma = normal stress, \phi = friction angle
βš™οΈ
Parameters
Result β€”
❓
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the formula for shear strength in the Mohr-Coulomb model?
The formula is Ο„ = c + Οƒ tan Ο†, where Ο„ is shear strength, c is cohesion, Οƒ is normal stress, and Ο† is the internal friction angle.
How do I use this calculator for a retaining wall design?
Input the soil’s cohesion, normal stress on the wall, and internal friction angle to determine the shear strength needed for stability.
What does cohesion represent in the Mohr-Coulomb model?
Cohesion represents the resistance of a material to sliding along a plane that is parallel to itself, independent of normal stress.
Can this calculator be used for both soil and rock?
Yes, the Mohr-Coulomb model can be applied to both soil and rock, though specific parameters may vary.
What is the significance of the internal friction angle in shear strength calculations?
The internal friction angle represents the slope of the failure envelope on a Mohr-Coulomb diagram and indicates how easily a material can deform under shear stress.
How does this calculator help in foundation design?
It helps by determining the maximum shear stress that soil or rock can withstand, ensuring that foundations are designed to safely support structures without failure.
What units should I use when inputting values into this calculator?
Use consistent units for all inputs: typically, cohesion in kPa or MPa, normal stress in kPa or MPa, and the friction angle in degrees.

Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.