TECHNICAL PAPERS
Aug 16, 2004

Method for Calculating the Edge Moisture Variation Distance

Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 130, Issue 9

Abstract

A three-dimensional moisture diffusion and volume change model was developed for determining the distribution of soil suction and the associated volume changes in an expansive soil mass under a covered area (e.g., slab foundations or pavements) with respect to time. The model was used to determine a relationship among the edge moisture variation distance, em, the amplitude of surface suction change, U0, and the diffusion coefficient of the soil, α. The edge moisture variation distance calculation is based on the change in soil suction beneath the covered area as a result of climate changes. The edge moisture variation distance is considered to be the distance between the edge of the covered area and the point beneath the covered area where suction change is no more than 0.12 kPa (0.1 pF). Comparison between the predicted values of edge moisture variation distance by using the proposed relationship to that measured in the field or predicted by other methods is also presented.

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Go to Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 130Issue 9September 2004
Pages: 945 - 955

History

Received: Nov 6, 2001
Accepted: Jun 2, 2003
Published online: Aug 16, 2004
Published in print: Sep 2004

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Authors

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B. M. El-Garhy
Lecturer, Civil Engineering Dept., Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Minufiya Univ., Shebin El-Kom, Egypt.
W. K. Wray, F.ASCE
Provost and Professor of Civil Engineering, Michigan Technological Univ., Houghton, MI 49931-1295.

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