A methodology for the formulation of water retention models in deformable soils

Abstract This paper presents a novel approach to soil–water retention modelling that is based on the analysis of material pore network. The postulates existence differential coupling function, which relates variation water ratio void at constant suction. Distinct functions have been considered, and most general option has integrated in closed-form relationship between with suction-dependent integration constant, whose expression describes isochoric behaviour. Four alternative expressions proposed resulting four different, but equivalent, models linking degree saturation, Each model predicts saturation by means parameters, namely two parameters accounting for effect calibrated against laboratory data from soils distinct particle size distributions shown accurate predictions different levels suction ratio. Validation additional also indicated can extrapolate soil behaviour stress paths beyond those considered during calibration.