Geotechnical evaluation of soil composition and mechanical properties for foundation stability

This study presents a geotechnical evaluation of soil composition and mechanical properties with emphasis on their implications for foundation stability. Natural soils are characterized with respect to particle-size distribution, mineralogical features, and hydro-mechanical behavior. The analysis considers internal bonding mechanisms – crystalline and aqueous-colloidal interactions – as key factors governing strength and deformation response. Field investigations and laboratory testing were conducted to quantify the main physical and mechanical parameters, including gradation, shear strength, compressibility, porosity, permeability, swelling/shrinkage potential, coagulation behavior, and capillary rise. The results show that soil properties may evolve under changing moisture and loading conditions due to microstructural rearrangement, which can alter bearing capacity and settlement performance over time. Particular attention is given to water–soil interaction in fine-grained soils, as moisture-driven mechanisms substantially modify shear resistance and deformation characteristics.