A new apparatus for analog modeling of clay smears

An apparatus has been developed for analog modeling of clay smears. This rather simple apparatus compliments the more sophisticated but less common geotechnical engineering ring shear apparatus that has been used in previous studies of clay smear formation. The new apparatus provides analog modelers with the ability to view and record soil deformation and formation of clay smears. The laboratory produced deformations and clay smears are very similar to those found in nature. A complete deformation history and clay smear formation process is documented.