Wettability assessment of an oil coated soil

Abstract

Soil wettability depends on the nature of the grain’s surface, existence of hydrophobic substances and can vary both spatially and temporarily. Low wettability conditions occur in both the natural and the built environment, including waste and contaminated soils. Low wettability in soils influences water infiltration, evaporation, and soil water retention. This contribution presents an assessment of wettability of oil contaminated samples recovered from South Quay, Barry Docks, UK. The Water Drop Penetration Test and the Molarity of an Ethanol Droplet tests were used to assess soil wettability. Measurements were conducted on statically consolidated samples at decreasing water contents. The results are discussed within the context of unsaturated soil mechanics and have applications in geo-environmental engineering.