Discussions on Laboratory Testing of Backwards Erosion Piping of Soil: An Interview with John H. Schmertmann and Frank C. Townsend.

摘要

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers initiated a new research project in Fiscal Year 2014 to expand the current state of knowledge regarding the backwards erosion piping potential of soils. As part of this project, laboratory testing is planned to investigate the piping potential of soils that have not yet been tested in previous research as identified in a literature review on the subject of backwards erosion. In preparation for U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to begin piping experiments, Drs. John H. Schmertmann and Frank C. Townsend, both formerly of the University of Florida, were interviewed regarding their laboratory work on piping that occurred in 1981, 1986, and 1995. The purpose of this technical note is to document this interview for use by the engineering profession. A brief history of research on backwards erosion piping and a summary of laboratory testing that has been conducted prior to the year 2000 are included in this technical note to provide information for understanding the context of the interview. Additionally, an overview of the planned laboratory test program is provided.