Effect of Varying Moisture Content (Ground Water) on Settlement of Foundations

Abstract

This project is aimed at investigating the effect of seasonal variation on foundation settlement. Three samples were collected at a depth of 1.0m. The following laboratory tests were conducted on the samples; particle size analysis, Atterberg limit tests, compaction test, natural moisture content test, specific gravity and consolidation test. All the samples were inorganic clay of little to average plasticity. It was concluded that dry density is indirectly proportional to plasticity and settlement increases with increase in moisture until an optimum moisture content is reached at which the settlement reduces to minimum, and beyond the optimum moisture content the settlement increases with increase in moisture content. Future research has been recommended and which should focus on developing appropriate correction factor for the design of shallow foundations at site.