Modetification ove Soil Movementles of Radar Refuresivity for Hydrological Applications Using an Inverse Method. Part I: Formulation

Abstract

This paper describes the use of an existing numerical model which is capable of generating continuous records over time of 3D soil suction profiles beneath a structure. The model uses recorded climatic data and representative soil properties. The model was used to obtain data required for the simulation of ground movements and the resulting structural response in a separate soil/structure interaction model (the results of the subsequent soil/structure interaction simulations are not reported). The factors influencing the soil moisture distribution beneath a structure were identified and careful consideration was given to quantifying the variability in these factors. The model explicitly captures the long-term moisture redistribution occurring beneath a structure as a result of introducing a ground cover. It also captures the effect of different construction dates on soil moisture conditions. If a range of construction dates are selected at random and 3D simulations over appropriate time periods are conducted, the variability in ground movements due to seasonal and long-term climatic effects and due to the choice of construction date can be quantified.