Electrical Dispersion in Relation to Soil Structure

The dielectric constant and conductivity of saturated clays vary with frequency in the frequency range 0 cps to 10⁵ cps. These variations can be used to reflect differences in structure-determining factors in clays, since particle orientation, particle size and size distribution, water content, type and amount of electrolyte, temperature, and particle surface treatment all influence the conductivity and dielectric response in a numerically significant and generally predictable manner. The determination of AC electrical response characteristics is fast and nondestructive of the sample. Electrical measurements may be incorporated into other tests such as strength and consolidation, where changes in structure that develop as the test proceeds may be of interest.