In geotechnical engineering, the study of the capillary fringe is fundamental for understanding soil moisture dynamics and its effect on soil properties. This zone, situated above the groundwater table, is crucial for predicting soil behavior under various conditions. Geotechnical engineers employ a variety of methods, including soil sampling and in-situ moisture monitoring, to examine the thickness and properties of the capillary fringe. These investigations reveal how the capillary fringe influences soil stability and permeability, crucial for designing foundations and managing groundwater. By comprehensively analyzing this interface, engineers can better anticipate and mitigate risks associated with soil moisture variations.«Analytical solutions to thermal gradient enhanced diffusion of organic contaminants through unsaturated composite liner: considering the existence of capillary fringe acta geotechnica»
The capillary fringe, also known as the unsaturated zone, is the region above the water table where groundwater is pulled upward against the force of gravity due to capillary action. It is formed by the interaction of water and soil particles, creating a zone of water saturation above the water table. The capillary fringe plays a crucial role in controlling the movement of water between the saturated and unsaturated zones and can influence the behavior of contaminants in the subsurface.«The use of geosynthetic capillary barriers to reduce moisture migration in soils geosynthetics international»
| Soil Type | Capillary Fringe Thickness (cm) | Porosity (%) | Permeability (cm/sec) | Typical Use/Occurrence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coarse Sand | 22 - 28 | 25 - 33 | High (10-2 to 10-4) | Drainage layers construction bases |
| Fine Sand | 30 - 48 | 32 - 38 | Moderate (10-3 to 10-5) | Concrete aggregates filtration |
| Silty Sand | 53 - 67 | 35 - 45 | Low to Moderate (10-5 to 10-7) | Embankment fill subgrade material |
| Silt | 72 - 88 | 41 - 48 | Very Low (10-6 to 10-8) | Garden soils pond liners |
| Clay | 93 - 117 | 45 - 54 | Extremely Low (<10-9) | Clay barriers ceramic materials |
The capillary fringe is an area of the subsurface where groundwater and soil moisture interact. Geotechnical engineering plays a crucial role in studying and understanding this zone to effectively design and construct various infrastructure projects. Through rigorous testing, analysis, and monitoring, geotechnical engineers can assess the behavior of soils in the capillary fringe and develop strategies to mitigate potential risks and challenges. This knowledge is vital in ensuring the long-term stability and performance of structures, such as buildings, dams, and retaining walls, in areas affected by the capillary fringe.«Flow and transport behaviors through the capillary fringe and partially saturated porous media - nasa/ads»
Capillary rise in soil occurs due to the cohesive forces between water molecules and the adhesion forces between water and soil particles. When the soil is fine-grained and has small pores, water is able to move upwards against gravity, filling the void spaces through capillary action. The rise is influenced by factors such as soil texture, grain size distribution, and pore size. Capillary rise can have significant implications for moisture content in buildings and foundations, as it can lead to water ingress and potential damage.«Laboratory development of polyphosphate remediation technology for in situ treatment of uranium contamination in the vadose zone and capillary fringe (book) osti.gov»
The capillary fringe can be measured by conducting a soil analysis and performing a test called a capillary rise test. In this test, a soil sample is placed in a container and water is slowly added until it reaches a specific height. The water then rises through the soil due to capillary action. The height to which the water rises is measured and recorded, providing an indication of the capillary fringe's depth. Other methods, such as using pressure sensors or soil moisture instruments, can also be employed to measure the capillary fringe in the field.«Water exclusion from tunnel cavities in the saturated capillary fringe »
The thickness of the capillary fringe varies depending on multiple factors such as soil type, grain size, and moisture content. On average, the capillary fringe can range from a few centimeters to several meters in thickness. In finer-grained soils, such as clays, the capillary fringe tends to be thicker due to the higher capillary forces. Conversely, in coarser-grained soils, such as sands, the capillary fringe is typically thinner. Site-specific geotechnical investigations and laboratory testing can provide more accurate estimates of the capillary fringe thickness for a particular location.«Mass transfer processes across the capillary fringe: quantification of gas-water interface and bubble mediated mass transfer - nasa/ads»
There are several factors that can cause an increase in capillary permeability, including inflammation, injury, infection, and certain medical conditions. Inflammatory mediators, such as histamine, bradykinin, and prostaglandins, can disrupt the tight junctions between endothelial cells lining the capillaries, leading to increased permeability. Additionally, trauma or infection can cause the release of cytokines that also increase capillary permeability. This increased permeability allows for the leakage of fluid, proteins, and white blood cells from the capillaries into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling and inflammation.«Investigation of flow within the capillary fringe using a synthetic aquifer»
