How do I determine soil permeabilty from PSD curves
How do I determine soil permeabilty from PSD curves
(OP)
I have PSD curves for a well graded glacial sands and gravels. I would like to estimate the permeability of the soil. I have tried using grading curves for using the uniformity coeficient and the D10 value. However they only seem suitable for uniform graded soils as does Hazens formula. Does any of you American geotechs know of an answer.





RE: How do I determine soil permeabilty from PSD curves
It shows a worked example in section 10.5.3.
Although the example shown is a sand, it suggests the range for is 20mm-0.3mm for soils with permeabilities ranging between 1.0 x 10-1 to 1.0 x 10-5.
However, if you dont have the samples available you may have to make some assumptions as regards the materials shape, dry density and specific gravity.
Hope this helps.
RE: How do I determine soil permeabilty from PSD curves
Best Regards,
Rob Kitchen
UK, Liverpool.
RE: How do I determine soil permeabilty from PSD curves
I have never used it, just remembered seeing it whilst looking for Hazens formula one time.
Good to see another UK user on eng-tips. Its a pitty there isn't a UK equivalent.
RE: How do I determine soil permeabilty from PSD curves
BTW Im working on contact for Montgomery Watson in Warrinton. Where are you based, I may even know you.
Cheers,
Rob.