Generalization of Ross' tilted capillary barrier diversion formula for different two-phase characteristic curves

Capillary barriers, consisting of tilted fine over coarse layers under unsaturated conditions, have been suggested as a means to divert water infiltration away from sensitive underground regions. Ross [1990] has developed a relationship for the steady‐state diversion length of tilted capillary barri...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Water resources research 1997-08, Vol.33 (8), p.1855-1859
Main Author: Webb, Stephen W.
Format: Article
Language:English
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Summary:Capillary barriers, consisting of tilted fine over coarse layers under unsaturated conditions, have been suggested as a means to divert water infiltration away from sensitive underground regions. Ross [1990] has developed a relationship for the steady‐state diversion length of tilted capillary barriers assuming the quasi‐linear set of two‐phase characteristic curves. Due to its simplicity, this equation has been used to evaluate potential tilted capillary barrier performance even in cases where the layer characteristic curves are different than the quasi‐linear equation set. In the present study, Ross' capillary barrier diversion relationship is extended to other two‐phase characteristic curves. This generalization allows for the use of any set of two‐phase curves in evaluating tilted capillary barrier performance. This generalized Ross' equation compares well with detailed numerical simulations.
ISSN:0043-1397
1944-7973
DOI:10.1029/97WR01231