Journal Published Online: 14 May 2003
Volume 26, Issue 2

Numerical Simulation of Water Movement in the Suction Equalization of a Thermal Conductivity Sensor

CODEN: GTJODJ

Abstract

Laboratory and field measurements of soil suction using a thermal conductivity soil suction sensor involves installing the sensors into a soil mass. The sensors may be installed either in an initially wet or an initially dry state. In order to ensure a reliable suction measurement, it is important that the sensor reach suction equalization with the surrounding soil. The results of a numerical study have shown that, in most cases, the equalization time required for an initially dry sensor is less than the equalization time for an initially wet sensor. This difference is mainly due to the unsaturated zone that develops on the boundary of the initially wet sensor at the beginning of the drying process. The results of the numerical simulation have been substantiated by laboratory suction measurements.

Author Information

Shuai, F
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
Fredlund, DG
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
Samarasekera, L
University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
Pages: 10
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: GTJ11332J
ISSN: 0149-6115
DOI: 10.1520/GTJ11332J