Coupled Heat and Moisture Flow Through Soils

Abstract

A method for numerically modeling the transient coupled heat and moisture flow in a multi‐dimensional soil domain subjected to time‐dependent heat and moisture generation is presented. The computer program, TRUCHAM, which is based on the Philip and DeVries model for flow in soils, utilizes an integrated finite difference procedure. The technique accommodates different types of linear and nonlinear boundary conditions and material properties. Validation of the program has been made with data from exact solutions, controlled laboratory experiments and field tests. This program will be useful in solving many heat and mass transport problems encountered in the field of underground power cables, heat storage and nuclear waste disposal programs.