UNIBEN SOIL

This study examines how important geotechnical properties of soil affect the stability, safety, and overall performance of engineering structures. Soil samples were taken from depths of 1.0 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, and 4.0 m, and tested for moisture content, grain size distribution, Atterberg limits, specific gravity, compaction behaviour, and triaxial shear strength. These tests helped to determine the soil’s physical and mechanical characteristics and how they respond to different loading and environmental conditions. Grain size results showed that the soil is mainly sandy, which explains its high permeability and low tendency to compress. The Atterberg limits indicated low to moderate plasticity, meaning the soil has limited swelling and shrinking capability. Specific gravity values suggested the presence of quartz-rich materials, while compaction tests provided the optimum moisture content (OMC) and maximum dry density (MDD) needed for proper construction. The triaxial test also gave the shear strength values required for evaluating bearing capacity and slope stability. The results shows that the soil has good engineering qualities when properly compacted, making it suitable for foundations, road bases, embankments, and similar structures. The study highlights the need for thorough geotechnical investigation before construction to avoid structural failures and recommends continuous monitoring and soil improvement methods where weaker layers occur.