Equations for hydraulic conductivity estimation from particle size distribution: A dimensional analysis. Issue 9 (10th September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Ji‐Peng; François, Bertrand; Lambert, Pierre
• Is Part Of: Water resources research. Volume 53:Issue 9(2017)
• Page Start: 8127
• Page End: 8134
• Publication Date: 2017-09-10
• Subjects: hydraulic conductivity -- particle size distribution -- dimensional analysis; Hydrology -- Periodicals; 333.91
• DOI: 10.1002/2017WR020888
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0043-1397

Abstract

Abstract: Estimating hydraulic conductivity from particle size distribution (PSD) is an important issue for various engineering problems. Classical models such as Hazen model, Beyer model, and Kozeny‐Carman model usually regard the grain diameter at 10% passing ( d 10 ) as an effective grain size and the effects of particle size uniformity (in Beyer model) or porosity (in Kozeny‐Carman model) are sometimes embedded. This technical note applies the dimensional analysis (Buckingham's ∏ theorem) to analyze the relationship between hydraulic conductivity and particle size distribution (PSD). The porosity is regarded as a dependent variable on the grain size distribution in unconsolidated conditions. It indicates that the coefficient of grain size uniformity and a dimensionless group representing the gravity effect, which is proportional to the mean grain volume, are the main two determinative parameters for estimating hydraulic conductivity. Regression analysis is then carried out on a database comprising 431 samples collected from different depositional environments and new equations are developed for hydraulic conductivity estimation. The new equation, validated in specimens beyond the database, shows an improved prediction comparing to using the classic models. Key Points: Dimensional analysis is employed in the analysis of the relationship between hydraulic conductivity and particle size distribution New equations are proposed for hydraulic conductivity estimation by basic soil gradation parameters The new method improves the estimation of hydraulic conductivity significantly comparing to classic equations