FOUNDATION INVESTIGATION OF PROPOSED STAFF QUARTERS OF ONDO STATE UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (OSUSTECH), OKITIPUPA, SOUTHWESTERN, NIGERIA

Abstract

An integrated geophysical and geotechnical investigation was conducted for foundation study at the proposed site of Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, with the aim of evaluating the competence of the subsurface layers to withstand the expected load. Geophysical data were obtained using electrical resistivity method and geotechnical analyses were carried out on selected soil samples within the study area.  The results of traverse 1 shows that the apparent resistivity values of the top soil ranges from 1356-3623 Ωm which was interpreted as competent bed for foundation structure while traverse 2 shows resistivity values ranges from 111 Ωm to 168 Ωm which was interpreted as clay, and the range of values of 1991 - 6262 mΩ were interpreted as highly competent sand. The geotechnical results revealed Liquid Limit ranges from 4.2- 4.4% while Plastic Limit ranges from 22.6-23.9%. The consistency limit revealed medium plasticity which means it will exhibit low to medium swelling potential. The linear shrinkage of the soil is within 8.6 – 9.3%, indicating that the samples are non-active and non-expansive, hence it may act as a fair foundation material. The subsoil of the study area is composed mainly of clayey sand and laterite.  All geotechnical parameters were within specification for the proposed structure. Hence, the subsoil of the study area is adjudged to be competent enough to withstand the proposed structure.