Soil properties and state of the soil - Geotechnical Investigation and Design Tables - page 88

Figure 7.3 Saturated and unsaturated zones.

7.20 Capillary rise
•

The capillary rise depends on the soil type, and whether it is in a drying or wetting
phase.

•

The table presents a typical capillary rise base on the coefficient of permeability
and soil type.

Table 7.20 Capillary rise based on the soil type (Vaughan et al, 1994).

Type of soil Coefficient of permeability m/s Approximate capillary rise

Sand 10 − 4 0.1-0.2 m

Silt 10 − 6 1-2 m

Clay 10 − 8 10-20 m

7.21 Equilibrium soil suctions in Australia
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The equilibrium soil suction depends on the climate and humidity.

7.22 Effect of climate on soil suction change
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The larger soil suction changes are expected in the drier climates.