A New Analytical Model to Predict the Hydraulic Conductivity of Unsaturated Soils

Abstract

A new analytical model is presented for the prediction of hydraulic conductivity. The new model is based on the Brutsaert characteristic curve psi(theta) and the Mualem integral relation. It is presented by a series expansion of the effective saturation (Theta) power and given in a simple algebraic relation. For checking the new model, twelve soils were selected from the available literature and a comparison was made between the new model, the experimental curve and the van Genuchten model as well. The suggested model is very close to the van Genuchten model in all cases except one and it exhibits hysteresis, due to the different values of the parameter b of Brutsaert equation for the wetting and drainage curves. Also a second model is presented, based on the Burdine integral relation.