Effects of testing techniques on the SWRC of a partially saturated soil

Abstract

The paper studies the laboratory measurement of the Soil Water Retention Curve (SWRC) of statically compacted London Clay focusing on the effects of different specimen preparation methods and testing techniques to acquire a better understanding of how measurements can be affected by these factors. Testing methods include filter paper, two modified pressure plate systems, and a ceramic pressure membrane extractor. A discussion on the repeatability of the measurements is also made.