Infiltrationstakten

Infiltrationstakten describes the rate at which water infiltrates the soil from the surface. Measured usually as depth per unit time (for example millimeters per hour), these rates are dynamic and change during and after rainfall. The initial infiltration rate is typically higher and tends to decrease as soil pores fill, surface crust forms, and moisture conditions evolve, often approaching a stable rate.

In field and laboratory contexts, infiltration is assessed with infiltrometers (double-ring or single-ring) or rainfall simulators. Field data are used to construct infiltration capacity curves and to estimate runoff. Several mathematical models describe the time dependence of infiltration, including Horton, Green-Ampt, and Philip's models; the choice depends on soil properties and data availability.

Infiltrationstakten are influenced by soil texture and structure, porosity, organic matter, and depth to restrictive layers, as well as antecedent moisture, surface cover, and crust formation. Vegetation, mulch, and soil compaction from machinery or traffic can reduce infiltration. Rainfall characteristics such as intensity and duration also play a role.

Applications include hydrological planning and stormwater management, where infiltration rates inform the design of infiltration basins, permeable pavements, and irrigation schemes. In urban and agricultural settings, understanding infiltration helps estimate groundwater recharge, runoff, and erosion risk.

Limitations arise from substantial spatial and temporal variability and measurement uncertainty. Extrapolation to larger areas requires careful upscaling and site-specific calibration.

See also: Infiltration, infiltration capacity, Horton model, Green-Ampt model, infiltration test.