Effect of Bulk Density on Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity

Allen A. Dusa
Department of Agricultural and Bioenvironmental Engineering,
Federal Polytechnic Mubi. Adamawa State.
E-mail: allen.dusa@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Soil samples were taken from five local governments (Yola, Tongo, Lamurde, Fofure and Hong)
in Adamawa State. One meter deep soil was dug and composite samples were taken from 0 to
0.5m and 0.5 to 1m from each hole. A total of ten bulk samples were taken from the field to the
laboratory. The disturbed soil was mixed thoroughly before taking to the laboratory for tests.
The soil samples were subjected to 2,3,4,5,6 and 7 blows using a standard proctor hammer in a
cylindrical mold to achieve bulk densities of 1.51,1.63,1.79,1.86,1.97 and 2.01g/cm3 respectively
at 7.25% moisture content. The saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) was determined by falling
head permeameter method. Measurement of Ks was done in three replicates and the mean values
of Ks were recorded. Simple linear regression was done using computer to establish a functional
relationships between saturated hydraulic conductivity and bulk density of the soils studied. The
equations obtained in this study could be used to estimate the saturated hydraulic conductivity of
the soils in the study area.