Modeling soil seal as a nonuniform layer

Y. Mualem*, S. Assouline

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

78 Scopus citations

Abstract

A quantitative conceptual model of soil sealing is proposed, based on the assumption that the compaction of the upper soil layer by raindrops and the “washed in” material result in a nonuniform change in bulk density, which can be approximated by an exponential function. The change in density causes in turn variations in soil properties, such as porosity, water retention, and hydraulic conductivity. Empirical functions are suggested to simulate the pattern by which these properties vary as dependent upon the density change. The model was calibrated using data of two experimental studies related to crust properties of three different soils: sandy loam, loam (loess), and clay loam. The model reproduced quite well the observed features of the experimental sealing characteristics. Seals developed in two different flow systems subjected to simulated rain were analyzed: (1) seal developed under saturated conditions over a shallow soil bed and (2) seal developed under unsaturated flow conditions. The proposed model highlights some soil parameters that are quite important and should be observed in soil sealing investigations. It also presents a basis for quantitative analysis of the soil sealing phenomenon in terms of measurable physical parameters.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2101-2108
Number of pages8
JournalWater Resources Research
Volume25
Issue number10
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1989

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Modeling soil seal as a nonuniform layer'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this