In the heart of Astana, Kazakhstan, a groundbreaking study is reshaping our understanding of soil behavior, with profound implications for urban infrastructure and the energy sector. Led by Eriko Dewangga from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Nazarbayev University, the research delves into the intricate relationship between soil density, water content, and soil-water characteristic curves (SWCC), offering practical insights for designing resilient, climate-adaptive cities.
As climate change and urban expansion continue to challenge traditional engineering practices, understanding unsaturated soil behavior has become more critical than ever. “Soil moisture retention influences stormwater management, structural performance, and the effectiveness of green infrastructure,” Dewangga explains. “By optimizing soil compaction, we can enhance water retention and reduce flood risk, particularly in semi-arid, climate-sensitive regions like Astana.”
The study focuses on engineered soil from Astana, tested under varying compaction conditions: at optimum water content (OWC), wet of optimum, and dry of optimum. Using advanced techniques such as Tempe cell and WP4C measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), the research team uncovered significant findings. Soil compacted at OWC and dry of optimum exhibited bimodal SWCCs, while wet-compacted soil showed unimodal behavior. Increased dry density resulted in reduced air entry value (AEV) and water content, while lower density led to larger dominant pore sizes and higher matric suction.
These findings offer practical insights into sustainable urban living. “Understanding SWCC behavior supports the design of climate-adaptive infrastructure, such as bioretention systems, permeable pavements, and vegetated swales,” Dewangga notes. “Integrating these soil mechanics principles into urban planning contributes to long-term resilience and more sustainable city development.”
The implications for the energy sector are equally significant. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the need for stable and efficient infrastructure becomes paramount. Understanding soil behavior can enhance the performance of geothermal systems, solar farms, and wind turbines, ensuring their long-term viability and sustainability.
Published in the journal ‘Frontiers in Built Environment’ (translated from English as ‘Frontiers in the Built Environment’), this research marks a significant step forward in the field of geotechnical engineering. By bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application, Dewangga and his team are paving the way for more resilient, sustainable, and energy-efficient urban environments.
As cities around the world grapple with the challenges of climate change and urban expansion, the insights gained from this study offer a beacon of hope. By harnessing the power of soil mechanics, we can build a future that is not only resilient but also sustainable, ensuring a better quality of life for generations to come.