Prediction and parametric assessment of soil one-dimensional vertical free swelling potential using ensemble machine learning models

Abstract Investigating soil swelling potential is indeed a critical research area in geotechnical engineering, given its significant influence on the stability and longevity of civil structures. This study aims to predict and assess the one-dimensional vertical free swelling potential of soils using ensemble machine learning models. Within the study context, a large dataset encompassing a wide array of soil parameters from 210 soil samples, including moisture content, unit weight, plasticity, and clay content, will be used. These parameters are critical in understanding the swelling behavior of soils under varying environmental and load conditions. The novel approach of this research lies in the application of ensemble machine learning techniques, which offer a robust framework to analyze complex, nonlinear relationships within soil properties. Another key aspect of this research is the parametric assessment, where the influence of individual soil properties on swelling potential is investigated using feature importance and partial dependence analyses. These analyses provide valuable insights into the relative importance of different soil parameters on soil behavior. The outcomes of this study contribute to soil mechanics and machine learning applications in geotechnical engineering and offer practical implications for engineers and practitioners. Besides, the predictive models developed in this study aid in more informed decision-making in the design and construction of civil structures, particularly in swelling-prone areas.