Water‐ and air‐filled pore networks and transport parameters under drying and wetting processes

The connectivity and tortuosity of fluid-filled pore networks in the water air phases strongly influence mass transport porous media. Moisture conditions (water content distribution) alter water- or air-filled networks. In this study, using a sand column with variable saturated conditions, were analyzed X-ray computed tomography (CT). Water parameters, including hydraulic conductivity, gas diffusion coefficient, permeability, measured. objectives (a) to identify effects entrapped on water-filled network conductivity (b) understand relevant parameters during drying wetting processes. Measurements quasisaturated samples showed that was drastically reduced when smaller situ bubbles present inside column. At same porosity, higher diffusivity permeability obtained under than those drying. CT image analysis revealed drying, resulting enhanced process. observed differences processes are highly promising for future multiphase models soils.