Defining a generic accelerated erosion testing method for earthen materials

The 1952 CSIRO accelerated erosion test was the first to appraise quality and potential longevity of earthen construction materials. measures depth resulting from a spray water delivered at set pressure distance nozzle controlled geometry. has remained popular, due its simplicity, forms basis design for durability in current New Zealand standards (and their derivatives). However, it is now recognised that does not capture full range exposure conditions likely affect an structure during lifetime. As such, academics practitioners have suggested variations test, reproduce which observed field. this makes difficult compare results one another, so prevents any standardised material assessment. materials grow interest unsaturated soils community, becoming necessary understand explore limitations these beyond hydromechanical properties between investigations fairly. This paper presents concept ‘generic’ method examines effect on erosive force specimen, how variables could be normalised. generic method, when developed, will remove strict restrictions original apparatus, making universally accessible.