Characterization of Shear Strength Parameters for Construction Works in Ado-Ekiti Metropolis, Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria

• Temitope E. OLUBODUN

  Author

• Joshua T. AKINWAMIDE

  Author

• Olugbenga O. AMU

  Author

This study presents the geotechnical characterization of shear strength parameters of soils within Ado-Ekiti metropolis, Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria, with a view to assess their suitability for construction works. Rapid urban development in the region has increased the demand for reliable subsurface information to ensure structural stability and prevent geotechnical failures. Field and laboratory investigations were carried out on soil samples obtained from ten (10) strategic locations, namely Adebayo, Bank Road, Abekoko, Omisanjana, Ado-Ikere Road, Basiri, Oke-ila, Ijigbo, Ado-Ilawe Road, and NTA Road. A total of fifty (50) samples were collected at a depth of approximately 1m in accordance with BS 1377 procedures. The tests conducted include Natural Moisture Content, Specific gravity, Particle size distribution, Atterberg limits, and Triaxial compression tests for the determination of shear strength parameters. The results show that the soils are predominantly lateritic in nature, with varying proportions of sand, silt, and clay fractions. The percentage of fines (<0.075 mm) ranged from approximately 13% to 78%, suggesting a wide variation in soil gradation across the study area. The liquid limit values ranged from 22% to 64%, while the plasticity index varied between 5% and 32%, indicating soils of low to high plasticity classifications under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS), mainly within CL and SC groups. Natural Moisture Content values ranged from 13% to 38%, reflecting the influence of climatic conditions and drainage characteristics. Specific gravity values varied between 2.20 and 2.68, consistent with lateritic soils derived from basement complex rocks. Shear strength parameters obtained from triaxial tests revealed cohesion values ranging from 15.70 kN/m² to 137.90 kN/m² and angles of internal friction between 4° and 24°. The results show that soils with higher plasticity indices generally exhibit higher cohesion but lower friction angles, while soils with lower plasticity display improved frictional resistance. The findings indicate that the soils within Ado-Ekiti possess moderate to high shear strength characteristics suitable for most civil engineering applications, including shallow foundations and pavement subgrades. However, areas with high plasticity and low friction angles, particularly in Abekoko, Omisanjana, and Ado-Ilawe, may require soil stabilization and proper drainage measures to enhance performance This study provides essential geotechnical data for design and construction practices in the region and emphasizes the importance of site-specific investigation for sustainable infrastructure development.

• 75_Olubodun et al. (2026)

Copyright (c) 2026 Temitope E. OLUBODUN, Joshua T. AKINWAMIDE, Olugbenga O. AMU (Author)

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