Abstract
Different approaches have been used for modeling retention curves. The experimental correlation was first proposed [1-3]. The physical modelling of unsaturated soils is used for this study. The shape of the retention curve is a consequence of physical assumptions. The paper presents a theoretical model based on elastic spherical particle arrangement. Firstly, a uniform model is presented with a single diameter of soil particle. The second step extends the use of the model to graded soils. The model uses only physical parameters easy to measure. The model is compared with the experimental retention curve of two different samples, the Livet-Gavet loam (1.61m-3mm) as paste and the Gavet sandy loam compacted with 85 falls per layer of Proctor weight. It shows its ability to model the experimental curves. It is of great interest for engineers as it uses only physical parameters. It gives a direct determination of the retention curve along the wetting path and along the drying path. It shows also the importance of adsorbed water to describe the retention curve.
Highlights
The development of numerical calculations and the increase of the power of microcomputers allows to determine the behaviour of large constructions of soil such as dikes, embankments, earthworks. All these earth structures are compacted at the Proctor optimum with a degree of saturation between 80 and 98% so that the soil is unsaturated
The first method is to use experimental relationships. It has been successfully initiated (1) by the model of Brooks and Corey [1], which requires the determination of air intake suction and experimental parameter δ; van Genuchten [2] used a new experimental relationship (2) able to simulate larger retention curves with 3 experimental parameters (α, n, m)
The present study deals with a theoretical model based on the arrangement of elastic spherical particles. This approach allows to explain the physical phenomenon of retention and to calculate with a limited number of physical parameters
Summary
The development of numerical calculations and the increase of the power of microcomputers allows to determine the behaviour of large constructions of soil such as dikes, embankments, earthworks All these earth structures are compacted at the Proctor optimum with a degree of saturation between 80 and 98% so that the soil is unsaturated. When the construction of the earth structure is completed, it appears drying and wetting events appear associated with rainy and sunny conditions These events require the development of a model able to simulate the drying and wetting paths to anticipate the future soil deformations. The present study deals with a theoretical model based on the arrangement of elastic spherical particles This approach allows to explain the physical phenomenon of retention and to calculate with a limited number of physical parameters
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