Ravjee, SachinJacobsz, Schalk WillemWilke, Daniel NicolasGovender, Nicolin2018-10-012018-11Ravjee, S., Jacobsz, S.W., Wilke, D.N. et al. Discrete element model study into effects of particle shape on backfill response to cyclic loading behind an integral bridge abutment. Granular Matter (2018) 20: 68. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10035-018-0840-z.1434-5021 (print)1434-7636 (online)10.1007/s10035-018-0840-zhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/66667The discrete element method, implemented in a modular GPU based framework that supports polyhedral shaped particles (Blaze-DEM), was used to investigate effects of particle shape on backfill response behind integral bridge abutments during temperature-induced displacement cycles. The rate and magnitude of horizontal stress build-up were found to be strongly related to particle sphericity. The stress build-up in particles of high sphericity was gradual and related to densification extending relatively far from the abutment. With increasing angularities, densification was localised near the abutment, but larger and more rapid stress build-up occurred, supported by particle reorientation and interlock developing further away.en© Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2018. The original publication is available at : https://link.springer.com/journal/10035.SphericityParticle shapeIntegral bridge abutmentsDiscrete element method (DEM)Abutments (bridge)Temperature-inducedStress build-upsParticle reorientationInvestigate effectsHorizontal stressDiscrete element modelingFinite difference methodEngineering, built environment and information technology articles SDG-09SDG-09: Industry, innovation and infrastructureEngineering, built environment and information technology articles SDG-11SDG-11: Sustainable cities and communitiesPostprint Article