ASSESSMENT OF THE BEARING CAPACITY AND SETTLEMENT BEAHAVIOUR OF SHALLOW FOUNDATION AT 10/10 HOUSING SENGERE, GEREI LGA, ADAMAWA STATE.

ABSTRACT This study assessed the bearing capacity and settlement behavior of shallow foundations at 10/10 Housing, Sengere, in Gerei Local Government Area (LGA). Comprehensive geotechnical investigations, including soil strength and settlement tests, were conducted to determine key soil properties and their impact on foundation performance. Three samples were collected at a depth of each designated labels A, B, and C. For all trialpits, Disturbed soils were collected and transported to the soil testing Laboratory of the department of civil engineering, Modibbo Adama University, Adamawa state, North east, Nigeria for Laboratory evaluation Test. A comprehensive geotechnical investigation was carried out to characterize the subsurface conditions and determine key soil properties that influence foundation performance. Laboratory tests conducted include: Cone penetration tests (CPT), consolidation tests, sieve analysis, triaxial compression tests, compressibility, grain size distribution, and density. The bearing capacity of the soil was analyzed by triaxial tests to determine parameters like cohesion and angle of internal friction. The study considers foundation depth on the safe load-carrying capacity. Settlement behavior was evaluated by estimating both immediate and long-term consolidation settlements, with consolidation tests providing essential data on soil compressibility and the rate of settlement under sustained loading. Results indicated that the bearing capacity of shallow foundations varied significantly based on soil type, with areas having higher clay content demonstrating reduced strength. The study also found that settlement under sustained loading. Laboratory tests revealed that the soil compaction, moisture content, and grain size distribution were-critical factors affecting foundation stability. Based on construction recommendations, such as improved compaction techniques and soil stabilization methods, were proposed to enhance the performance of shallow foundations in the area, ensuring structural safety and durability under anticipated load conditions.