Aspects of the drainage process in soils

The initial portion of this thesis contains a review of basic theory. An experimental programme was also undertaken to measure soil parameters; and to observe heads and seepage rates during transient flow conditions in experiments. These experimental values were compared with results from finite element calculations. It was necessary for the candidate to devise a system for modifying an existing main-frame finite element package (ADINAT) in order to cope with the transient partly saturated draining state which exists above a falling water table. Good agreement was found between observed and computed transient heads. The experimental work of other investigators was also analysed by using this Finite Element program, and again good agreement was found between observed and computed transient conditions. It was decided in conjunction with the supervisor to limit this thesis to two-dimensional flow in the vertical plane