Bearing capacity of foundations on a weak sand layer overlying a strong deposit

The ultimate bearing capacity of footings resting on subsoils consisting of a weak sand layer overlying a strong deposit has been investigated. Based on model tests of strip and circular footings in a loose or compact sand layer overlying a dense sand deposit, the classical equation of bearing capacity of footings on homogeneous sand was extended to cover cases of these footings in layered sands where the upper layer is the weaker. The theory compared well with the available model test results. Design charts are presented.