Effect of natural non-expansive soil cover on water loss and cracking in underlying expansive soil

Laboratory model experiments were carried out on expansive soil systems with varying thickness of non-expansive soil cover. Suction of the soils were measured prior to the model experiment.

The models were subjected to three wet and dry cycles and soil moisture content was measured at various depths. Surface and internal cracks were observed and mentioned. Infiltration rate of the soils was also measured.