Grain-size dependence of water retention in a model aggregated soil

We experimentally examined the amount of water retention in a model soil composed aggregated glass beads. The was characterized by two size parameters: aggregates D and monomer particles (composing aggregates) d. In experiment, sprinkled on model-soil system that has an open top surface drainable sieve bottom. When exceeded threshold (retainable limit), draining flux balanced with flux. weight variations retained drained were measured to confirm this (steady) state quantify water. defined steady as W0 relationship among W0,d D. As result, it revealed increases d decreases simply due capillary effects. Regarding dependence, turned out becomes maximum around D≃500 μm. value maximizing is determined void formation structure, effect, gravity.