Abstract: | Analytical solutions are derived for a three‐invariant Cam clay model subjected to proportional and circular drained loading histories. The solutions are presented for a specific volume, and volumetric and generalized shear strains. In the case of a proportional loading only straight effective stress paths are considered while in the case of a circular loading the maximum possible change in Lode's angle is π/3 due to plastic isotropy. Additionally, a concept of deviatoric stiffness is devised and an analytical expression for the generalized hardening modulus is derived. Qualitative and quantitative analyses are carried out in the form of direct comparisons between analytical solutions for drained and undrained loading histories thus offering an improved understanding of the three‐invariant model. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |