Equilibrium Stage of Soil Cracking and Subsidence after Several Wetting and Drying Cycles

This work investigates the equilibrium stage of crack propagation a fine-grained soil after several drying and wetting cycles (shrinkage swelling hysteresis). is found to be crucial in practical engineering since continues show its irreversible hydraulic settlement, which potential risk for some severe structural damages. The shrinkage area were determined by using image processing method. For cyclic experimental investigations, cracks followed during six months successive two samples (with different initial water contents). These long-term tests completed short term single path performed on prepared at states. results showed existence unique end studied samples. equilibrated subsidence was separated into parts: reversible settlement settlements cumulated cycles. At stage, deformation 5.9% 3.8%. A simplified theoretical approach also used predict cracking subsidence. fitted parameters each cycle stabilized confirm this stage.