Aurangabad Maharashtra Geotechnical Investigation & Soil Analysis for Foundation Design

Aurangabad Maharashtra Geotechnical Investigation & Soil Analysis for Foundation Design

Project Overview

This project involved a detailed Geotechnical Investigation in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, to assess subsurface soil and rock conditions for a proposed infrastructure development. The investigation aimed to evaluate soil strength, bearing capacity, and settlement characteristics to provide safe and economical foundation design recommendations.

Scope of Work

The scope of work for this investigation included:

  • Site Reconnaissance – Initial inspection and planning of borehole locations.

  • Drilling Boreholes – Conducting rotary/percussion drilling up to the required depth.

  • Soil Sampling – Collection of disturbed and undisturbed soil samples for laboratory testing.

  • In-Situ Tests – Standard Penetration Tests (SPT), field density, and water table measurement.

  • Laboratory Testing – Grain size analysis, Atterberg limits, direct shear test, unconfined compressive strength, and triaxial tests.

Methodology

  1. Borehole Drilling was carried out at strategic locations using rotary rigs.

  2. SPT N-values were recorded at every 1.5m depth interval.

  3. Undisturbed soil samples (UDS) were preserved in wax-sealed containers for compressibility and strength testing.

  4. Groundwater table was monitored during and after drilling operations.

  5. Laboratory testing was conducted as per IS 2720 standards.

Findings

  • Top Soil Layer: Silty clay with medium plasticity up to 2.0 m depth.

  • Intermediate Strata: Sandy silt with occasional gravel extending up to 8.0 m.

  • Deeper Layer: Weathered basalt rock encountered at depths ranging between 9.5 m to 12.0 m.

  • SPT Values: Increased with depth, ranging from 8 (near surface) to 45 (close to rock).

  • Groundwater: Observed at ~5.2 m below ground level.

Recommendations

  • A shallow foundation is feasible for light structures with a safe bearing capacity (SBC) of 180 kN/m² at 2.0 m depth.

  • For medium to heavy structures, pile foundations terminating in weathered basalt are recommended.

  • Raft foundation can be adopted for uniform load distribution in case of settlement-sensitive structures.

  • Proper drainage measures should be incorporated due to moderate groundwater presence.

Conclusion

The Geotechnical Investigation in Aurangabad, Maharashtra provided critical subsurface information for structural design. The findings ensure safe, economical, and durable foundation solutions for the proposed development.