Measuring the water retention curve of rock fragments: A novel repacked core methodology

• DOI: 10.1111/ejss.13181
• Publication Date: 2021-10-10T11:19:17Z
• Authors: Balin B. Robertson; Julie D. Gillespie; Sam T. Carrick; Peter C. Almond; John Payne; Henry W. Chau; Carol M. S. Smith
• Keywords: Matrix (chemical analysis); Pumice

Abstract We describe a novel suction plate experiment that uses large, repacked soil cores comprising clasts and fine‐textured matrix to accurately measure the water retention curve of rock fragments (RFs) high low porosity. The method incorporates plate‐core containment system can be weighed as unit, overcome typical core size restrictions. relies on analysing relationship between total volumetric content RF concentration. Cores are packed with mix glass RFs maintain uniform clast proportion 30% while concentration varies. A constant volume improves accuracy precision by ensuring water‐holding characteristics varies little possible among cores. Highlights determine greywacke‐pumice in is unit allows large used. WRC determined varying rock%, but clast% stays adding glass. By using above, porosity rocks measured precisely.