Silt C2 implications
Silt consists of natural reek grains. It lacks plasticity and possesses little or no cohesion
when dry. Because of silt’s instability, water will cause it to become soft or to change to a
“quick” condition. When dry, silt provides excellent trafficability, although it is very
dusty. However, it absorbs water quickly and turns to a deep, soft mud (a quick
condition), which is a definite obstacle to movement. When ground water or seepage is
present, silt exposed to frost action is subject to ice accumulation and consequent
heaving.
FM 5-33 US Army Field Manual, Terrain Analysis, p. 1-4