Investigation of Ground Settlement in a Residential Area: A Case Study of Ekosodin Community, Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates ground settlement in residential structures along Ogurobo Street in Ekosodin, Benin City, Nigeria. Field reconnaissance surveys and laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the geotechnical properties of the soil and identify the causes of structural distress. Laboratory analyses were performed in accordance with ASTM standards and included natural moisture content, specific gravity, particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, compaction, triaxial shear strength, and consolidation tests. The results indicate that the soil is predominantly fine-grained with relatively high moisture content ranging from 17% to 23%. The soils exhibit moderate plasticity, with plasticity index values between 17.86% and 26.13%, and specific gravity ranging from 2.29 to 2.55. Compaction results show optimum moisture content values between 10.6% and 16.4% and maximum dry density ranging from 1.74 to 2.48 g/cm³. Shear strength parameters show cohesion values between 2.74 and 3.43 kN/m² and angles of internal friction between 18° and 24°. The calculated safe bearing capacity ranges from approximately 93 to 158 kN/m², indicating low to moderate load-bearing capacity. These properties suggest that the soil is highly susceptible to settlement due to its compressibility and moisture sensitivity. The findings highlight the need for proper foundation design, adequate drainage, and ground improvement measures to mitigate differential settlement and structural failure in the study area