Mineralogical properties of some nigerian residual soils in relation with building problems

Abstract This paper shows that mineralogy, climatic conditions and land use jointly influence the geotechnical behaviour of soils and are each of significant importance. Shrinkage was found to be the major source of distress in the semi-arid Bakura soil due to climatic conditions. Also, serious damage to structures was recorded for a pure kaolinitic soil in a Kaduna Textile Industry terrain as a result of land use of the location. The study gives a wider coverage of the Nigerian soils important for the construction industry. Finally, the paper presents tentative foundation design for light buildings in semi-arid regions, suitable for implementation at local levels.