The use of XRCT to investigate highly unsaturated soil mixtures

X-Ray Computed Tomography (XRCT) is a non-destructive three-dimensional analysis technique which enables the characterisation and measurement of the internal structures of solid material samples down to sub-micron resolution. This paper describes experiences in using and developing XRCT methods and techniques to investigate unsaturated soils, specifically the microstructures of highly unsaturated soil mixtures used in earthen construction. The paper describes a study of the compressive loading behaviour of rammed earth samples which were also scanned, during which lessons were learnt regarding the use of XRCT to study soil mixtures. It is the latter which will be of most use to other researchers planning to use XRCT.