ISSN: 1945-7553
CODEN: JTEVAB
Page Count: 6

Effects of Dispersion and Swelling on Soil Hydraulic Conductivity

Frenkel, H
Visiting soil scientist and supervisory soil scientist, USDA Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Salinity Laboratory, Riverside, Calif.

Rhoades, JD
Visiting soil scientist and supervisory soil scientist, USDA Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Salinity Laboratory, Riverside, Calif.

Abstract

The mechanisms of clay mineral dispersion and swelling, their effects on soil hydraulic conductivity, and their relevance to piping failures of earth-filled dams are discussed. It is concluded that clay dispersion could initiate piping failures of earthen dams. A method is recommended for evaluating the susceptibility of soil materials to disperse.

Keywords:
clays, dispersions, swelling, soil permeability, dam failures, piping failures, hydraulic conductivity

Paper ID: JTE10920J
DOI: 10.1520/JTE10920J
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.