Assessment of Geotechnical Properties and Bearing Capacity of Subsurface Soils for Shallow Foundation Design in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract: This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of subsurface soils for shallow foundation design in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Soil samples obtained from five locations—RSU Campus, Iwofe, Eneka, Rukpokwu, and Egbelu—were subjected to laboratory tests including natural moisture content, specific gravity, Atterberg limits, triaxial compression, and one-dimensional consolidation. Results indicate that the soils are predominantly fine-grained and classified as A-7-5 clayey soils under the AASHTO system. Natural moisture content ranged from 22.41% to 25.36%, while specific gravity varied between 2.54 and 2.62. Plasticity characteristics show mostly medium plastic clays, with relatively higher plasticity at Iwofe. Shear strength parameters yielded cohesion values of 37–118 kPa and friction angles of 11.55°–20.55°. The estimated ultimate bearing capacity ranged from 169–214 kN/m², indicating moderate load-bearing capacity. Consolidation analysis predicted settlements between 0.44 and 3.61 mm, suggesting that the soils are generally suitable for shallow foundations for low- to medium-rise structures with proper design considerations. Keywords: geotechnical characterization, shallow foundation, soil properties, bearing capacity, consolidation, Port Harcourt. Title: Assessment of Geotechnical Properties and Bearing Capacity of Subsurface Soils for Shallow Foundation Design in Port Harcourt, Nigeria Author: Tamunoemi Alu LongJohn, Godfrey Waribo Tom Jaja International Journal of Engineering Research and Reviews ISSN 2348-697X (Online) Vol. 14, Issue 1, January 2026 - March 2026 Page No: 49-52 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 09-March-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18919283 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/assessment-of-geotechnical-properties-and-bearing-capacity-of-subsurface-soils-for-shallow-foundation-design-in-port-harcourt-nigeria