Digital image-based analysis of a small-scale dam failure during wetting

The use of digital images and the correlation them in time is commonly used geotechnical laboratory experiments to measure surface variables a non-invasive massive way. Digital image correlation-based methods provide motion soil. More recently, measurements degree saturation on soil using have also been developed, although its application validation are still limited. This methodology based fact that almost all soils become darker (less light reflective) due wetting. article uses image-based analysis techniques evaluate behaviour during wetting small-scale dam made compacted fine sand. With aim validating from images, moisture sensors were installed dam. tested was previously calibrated determine reflectance covering dry fully saturated range. Measurements velocity, displacements, deformations evaluated experiment recorded visual shortwave infrared (SWIR) described step-by-step including camera lighting system, sample preparation, acquisition analysis. allow changes failure mechanisms associated with process be observed. results obtained through analyses show good agreement parameters point conventional sensors. some limitations method, mainly accumulation errors tracking particles large displacements.