Fractal Dimension of Water Path through Unsaturated Media and Its Simulation using Water Path Invasion Model

Abstract

Water path through unsaturated media was examined for its fractal dimension by experiments with glass-beads and by computer simulations using ‘water path invasion model’ which involves the effects of capillary force and gravity.
Experimental results showed that the water path developed fractal pattern and its fractal dimension decreased as particle size increased. Computer simulations showed that the model can produce the similar nature of fractal water path to the experimental results, if it is supposed that smaller pores can play no role for water path development.