Basic Concepts in the Mechanics and Hydraulics of Unsaturated Geomaterials

摘要: Unsaturated geomaterials are those where the void spaces partially filled with liquid and gas. The (wetting) phase is an aqueous solution generically referred to as water whereas gaseous (nonwetting) a mixture of air vapour air. mutual interaction between these two fluid phases their solid play key role in mechanical hydraulic response unsaturated geomaterials. basic mechanisms thermodynamics liquid, gaseous, not commonly covered by undergraduate graduate courses. As result, students engineers geotechnical background may find it difficult approach mechanics hydraulics soils. purpose this chapter fill gap illustrate elementary behind retention, flow, behaviour Special emphasis given capillary arising from surface tension at air-water interface angle formed solid-liquid-gas junction (contact angle). Capillary actions major can conveniently serve basis introduce most distinctive features