Application of Geophysical Methods in Foundation Failure Investigation in the Metro Hostel, Camp Area, Abeokuta, South Western Nigeria | Chapter 1 | Current Approaches in Science and Technology Research Vol. 9

 This study used a combination of geophysical techniques, including vertical electrical sounding (VES) and seismic refraction, to determine the cause(s) of the foundation failure of the Metro Hostel Building opposite Mechanic Village, Camp Area, Abeokuta, Nigeria. The main structure that has been impacted is a two-story building that is tilting and has extensive foundation fissures. The PASI – Earth (16 GLN) resistivity metre was used to acquire resistivity data, and the ABEM Terraloc MK -6 Seismograph was utilised to collect velocity data. Vertical electrical sounding yields a maximum of three sequences: topsoil, weathered layer (clayey sand/sandy clay), and fractured rock/fresh basement, with a maximum depth to the basement of 10.38 m. The conclusion was backed up by seismic refraction, which revealed three primary velocity layers, with the second layer velocities varying between 680 and 950 m/s, thickness values ranging from 6.80 to 8.27 m, and a total depth-to-bedrock of 10.27 m. The presence of clayey materials in the study region constituted a threat to three structures that had been constructed. The analysis indicated that the building structure failed owing to incompetent clay layer and poor foundation construction on some parts of the building, as evidenced by the tilting and cracks that were noticed. To avoid catastrophic collapse, it is recommended that reinforcing, concrete packing, and buttress pillars be installed around the buildings, particularly in locations with more significant subsidence.

Author (S) Details

J. O. Coker
Department of Physics, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria.

V. Makinde
Department of Physics, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

A. O. Mustapha
Department of Physics, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria.

J. K. Adesodun
Department of Soil Science and Land Management, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria.

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