Measuring desiccation-induced tensile stress during cracking process

The desiccation cracking of soil occurs when shrinkage is restricted during the drying process and induced tensile stress equals strength. Thus far, experimental estimations have not been realized, although such estimates are important for predicting crack initiation. This study presents development a laboratory-based test to measure generated until In this proposed test, in longitudinal direction bar-shaped specimens with fixed ends. Desiccation tests were performed on sandy rich fine fraction, results verified through photographic observations initiation comparisons direct tension tests. show that yields reliable cracking. application illustrated via verification an existing model by desiccation. useful determining parameters significantly influence enable its accurate prediction