DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF STRUCTURES ON SWELLING SOILS

摘要

Design and construction of structures can be a challenge if swelling soils are present in the area where these are to be built. When these soils absorb moisture, they expand or swell. As a result of this, these soils exert tremendous pressure on the foundations. Foundation soils which are expansive will heave and can cause lifting of structures during periods of high moisture. Conversely during periods of falling soil moisture, expansive soil will collapse and can result in foundation settlement. If the foundations are not properly designed and constructed, the structures can be lifted, cracked and moved, and thus may become unusable. There may be huge losses as a result of damage caused by swelling soil. The damages can be avoided if proper consideration of swelling soil is done at the design and construction stage.