INVESTIGATION OF FOUNDATION INTEGRITY AND SOIL STABILITY OF AN EXISTING BUILDING USING SEISMIC REFRACTION METHOD AND 2D WENNER ARRAY. A CASE STUDY OF FUPRE HEALTH CENTER, WARRI, NIGERIA.
Abstract
The stability and integrity of building foundations are critical for structural safety, particularly in regions with complex subsurface conditions. This study assessed the foundation integrity and soil stability of an existing building at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun (FUPRE) Health Center using seismic refraction and 2D Wenner array geophysical methods. The seismic refraction method provided insights into subsurface lithology and mechanical properties by analyzing P-wave velocities, while the 2D Wenner array method identified variations in electrical resistivity, correlating with moisture content and soil heterogeneity.
The results revealed a three-layer subsurface structure. The topsoil layer exhibited low P-wave velocities (244–263 m/s) and resistivity values ranging from 661.2Ωm to 1623.6Ωm, indicating weak and moisture-laden materials prone to settlement. The intermediate layer showed moderately higher P-wave velocities (378–382 m/s) and resistivity values between 626.4Ωm and 1028.0Ωm, representing more compacted and stable materials. The deeper layer, with high P-wave velocities (710–776 m/s) and resistivity values exceeding 2000Ωm corresponds to dense, consolidated soil or rock capable of supporting significant structural loads.
The foundation's integrity and soil stability depend heavily on the depth and distribution of these layers relative to the foundation depth - If the foundation is shallow and restricted to the weak topsoil layer, the building may be prone to settlement and instability; If the foundation reaches the deeper, dense layer, the stability and integrity of the structure will be significantly improved.
The findings emphasize the importance of combining seismic and resistivity techniques for comprehensive geotechnical investigations. Recommendations include soil stabilization, improved drainage systems, and the use of deep foundations to mitigate identified risks. This study underscores the value of geophysical methods in assessing foundation stability, contributing to safer building practices and sustainable development in geologically diverse regions.
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