Chapter 3: Soil mechanics studies

Abstract

The soil analysis allows to know the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of the projected soil, that is to say, the stratigraphic composition, the layers or strata that compose the different properties of the soil and its depth, as well as the depth at which its foundations should be made. It is important to recognize the type of soil because each of them has a specific property such as gravels are very permeable, sands have high capillarity, silts are suitable for compaction and clays are impermeable. Studies carried out on the soil, such as granulometry, allow it to be classified according to SUCS or AASHTO standards, moisture analysis allows the amount of water that is present together with the particles to be recognized, and the stratigraphic profile allows the heights of the soil layers and their color and texture to be known, consistency limits such as liquid limit and plastic limit allow it to be recognized if they have moldable properties, the specific gravity is an important factor in its design, the content of soluble salts allows to determine the type of cement to be used, the proctor test allows to know the compaction characteristics such as dry specific weight and optimum moisture and the direct shear test allows to recognize the angle of internal friction and cohesion present in the soil. The purpose of the soil study is to provide the necessary data to carry out the designs of engineering works, recognize the characteristics of the soil in situ, prevent possible problems in the future, as well as to establish the appropriate modifications to the construction processes and above all to guarantee the good operation of the building and to fulfill its useful lifetime.