Using surface crack spacing to predict crack network geometry in swelling soils

Prediction of the geometrical characteristics of steady crack networks in swelling soils is possible using a previously published model based on concepts of multiple cracking and fragmentation. Applications of the model require estimation of the model parameters: the thickness of the upper intensive-cracking layer, z(o), and maximum depth of the cracks, z(m). A technique of such an estimation is proposed based on the correlation of these parameters with the mean spacing between the shrinkage cracks at the soil surface. The data from three previously published papers are used for validation of the correlation. The data are related to 10 different soil profiles and different geographical areas. Estimates of standard deviations of comparable values show their overlap within the limits of measurement errors.