A microstructure insight into the water retention properties of the Callovo-Oxfordian claystone

The effect of changes in suction on the microstructure of the Callovo-Oxfordian claystone along wetting and drying paths was investigated by using mercury intrusion porosimetry. Based on a simplified brick model, the changes of the average thickness of the platelets that constitute the clay matrix (50%) are interpreted as the consequence of the successive adsorption of ordered layers of water molecules along the smectite surfaces, as demonstrated on pure smectites for a long time. This shows the predominant role played by the smectite phase in the overall response of the Callovo-Oxfordian claystone when submitted to suction changes under no stress.