INVESTIGATION OF SOIL PROPERTIES IN VARIOUS LOCATION

This study examines the geotechnical properties of soils from four distinct locations in the Konkan region—Khopoli, Rasayani, Mangaon, and Uran—through a series of laboratory and field tests. Tests included water content determination, specific gravity, sieve analysis, Standard Proctor compaction, direct shear tests, and core cutter methods. Key parameters such as optimum moisture content (OMC), maximum dry density (MDD), particle size distribution (D10, D30, D60, Cu, Cc), cohesion, and angle of internal friction were evaluated. Terzaghi’s bearing capacity theory was applied to calculate ultimate bearing capacities for square footings, revealing significant variability: Khopoli (640.80 kN/m²), Rasayani (1741.026 kN/m²), Mangaon (2065.571 kN/m²), and Uran (2164.039 kN/m²). These results highlight the necessity of site-specific soil investigations for safe and economical foundation design in regions with diverse geological conditions. Key Words: Geotechnical Properties, Soil Bearing Capacity, Konkan Region, Sieve Analysis, Standard Proctor Test, Direct Shear Test, Terzaghi’s Theory, Soil Variability, Foundation Design, Cohesion and Friction Angle