Aggregate and Particle Size Distribution of the Soil Sediment Eroded on Steep Artificial Slopes

In this study, the particle size distribution (PSD) of soil sediment from topsoil obtained erosion experiments under different conditions was measured. Rainfall simulators were used for rain generation on plots with slopes 22°, 30°, 34° and length 4.25 m. The influence external factors (slope initial state) aggregate evaluated by laser diffractometer (LD). representation percentage in eroded also investigated. It has been found that when processes are intensive (steep slope or long duration raining), contains coarser particles lower amounts aggregates. Three methods analyses tested: (i) conventional–sieving hydrometer method; (ii) PARIO Soil Particle Analyzer combined sieving; (iii) diffraction (LD) using Mastersizer 3000. These terms reproducibility results, time demands, usability. verified LD significant advantages compared to other two methods, especially short measurement one sample (only 15 min per LD) possibility destroy aggregates ultrasound which is much easier than hexametaphosphate.