Fluency with poroelastic theory is prerequisite to advanced study of material and mass transport properties in a wide range of contexts. Often the greatest challenge in introducing students to the subject is to help them visualize the fluid flows and deformations that accompany phenomena such as creep and stress relaxation. We have developed a simple physical model of poroelastic materials that provides an effective classroom demonstration. Parameters of the model can be altered to mimic changes in material elastic modulus, hydraulic permeability and thickness in order to demonstrate the effects of these variables on the kinetics of creep and stress relaxation. Since the apparatus highlights phenomena governed by the diffusion equation, it can also be used as an aid for visualization of solute diffusion and conductive heat transfer processes. Feedback from students has been very positive, indicating that this demonstration apparatus enhances their ability to visualize poroelastic mechanics at an introductory stage of learning.
