Modeling and Mechanisms of Desiccation-Induced Cracking and Curling in Clay Soils: A State-of-the-Art Review

Abstract Desiccation-induced cracking and curling in clay soils are common phenomena that significantly affect their mechanical and hydraulic properties. These processes result from the rearrangement of soil particles due to moisture loss, leading to volumetric shrinkage and crack formation. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the mechanisms and patterns of cracking and curling in clay soils during desiccation, with an emphasis on the role of capillary pressure and tensile strength in controlling these behaviors. The review integrates findings from field observations, laboratory experiments, established theories, and numerical modeling approaches. A systematic summary of experimental methodologies used to investigate these phenomena is presented, highlighting the importance of fracture mechanics in understanding the crack propagation process. The paper discusses the influence of plasticity characteristics of clay soils on desiccation cracking and identifies key areas for future research, including the need for further in-situ experiments and more advanced numerical studies.