<b>Adjustment of the infiltration curve by different empirical models</b>

Abstract

The estimation of some hydro-physical properties of soil through the use of empirical models is an excellent alternative for reducing the time and cost of laboratory tests, especially for quick and precise application of those values in agricultural projects. The aim of this study is to estimate the speed of infiltration of water into the soil by means of empirical models proposed by Horton, Kostiakov and Kostiakov-Lewis and comparing the results with data obtained in the field through the ring infiltrometer. The research was conducted in sandy soil texture of the experimental area of the State Enterprise for Agricultural Research - EMEPA, located in Lagoa Seca, PB. A total of 65 tests of infiltration through the ring infiltrometer were performed along the experimental area. The models of Horton, Kostiakov and Kostiakov-Lewis, were fitted to data obtained in the field with the ring infiltrometer. Among the models tested, the one proposed by Horton had the best performance. However, the prognostic models of Horton, Kostiakov and Kostiakov-Lewis were almost similar.