Prediction of saturated hydraulic conductivity of compacted soils using empirical scaling factors

A new empirical-based scaling method is introduced to predict saturated hydraulic conductivity (K-s) of compacted soils. This method is an improvement of the former non-similar media concept (NSMC) model that is generalized for tilled and untilled conditions. In this method, geometric mean particle size diameter (d(g)), geometric standard deviation (sigma(g)) and saturated soil water content (total porosity) are successfully incorporated in the empirical-based scaling factor of K-s. Results showed that the scaled model overestimated K-s by similar to 18%, whereas the NSMC model underestimated K-s by similar to 21%. However, the scaled model based on the similar media concept (SMC) failed to predict K-s. Because of the complexity and high uncertainty in determining the shape factor parameter in the NSMC model, it is suggested that the new scaled model might be used reliably in practical cases to predict K-s in the various layers of compacted soils irrespective of the tillage condition. Further assessment of the new scaling model in other areas, in which new collected data are available, is recommended.