Slaking
The term 'slaking' refers to a process in which earth materials such as aggregates disintegrate into smaller sizes when exposed to moisture or immersed in water. It can be used to refer to natural geologic formations or land modifications such as may be necessary for construction works.
Slaking tends to occur when large soil aggregates are not strong enough to withstand stresses that are incurred by rapid water uptake. These internal stresses are the result of the differential swelling of clay particles, air that is trapped and escapes in soil pores, and the rapid release of heat during the wetting process, as well as the mechanical action of moving water.
The stability of soil aggregates, their resistance to erosion, and how well the soil can maintain its structure when rapidly wetted are all indicated by the process of slaking. If slaking is minimal, it is an indication that the soil contains organic matter that helps to bind soil particles and microaggregates into larger and more stable aggregates.
Slaking can be caused or exacerbated by:
- Tillage methods that disturb the soil and accelerate the decomposition of organic matter.
- The burning or removal of crop residues.
- The use of pesticides that are harmful to soil organisms.
The term slaking can also refer to an exothermic reaction initiated by sprinkling water on hot-mixed mortars. For more information see: Hot-mixed mortars.
It can also refer to lime blow out in clay bricks, plasters and renders.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation which closes 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
CIOB Construction Manager of the Year 2025
Just one of the winners at the CIOB Awards 2025.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.