Dataset Direct Download Service (WFS): Redeveloping and inflating clays Search form for the Northern Department

The removal by drying of clay soils during severe and/or long-lasting drought results in deformations of the soil surface (differentiated cutters). It can be followed by swelling phenomena as initial hydrogeological conditions recover or more rarely creep with softening. Nature of the phenomenon: In a temperate climate, clays are often close to their saturation state, so their swelling potential is relatively limited. On the other hand, they are often far from their withdrawal limit, which explains why the most important movements are observed during dry periods. The most superficial slice of soil, 1 to 2 m deep, is then subject to evaporation. This results in a removal of the clays, which is manifested vertically by a settlement and horizontally by the opening of cracks, classically observed in the bottoms of the pools that dry.