A study of foundations and soil conditions on the University of Manitoba campus

Abstract

This thesis contains a summary of data regarding engineering characteristics of the subsoils on the University of Manitoba Campus, together with such explanatory material as appears necessary for a general understanding of subsoil conditions on the Campus. The records of 52 test borings and many hundreds soil tests of various types are assembled and summarized in the quantitiative terminology of modern soil mechanics. The result of the study shows that the soil profile at the University of Manitoba Campus conforms generally to the typical Lake Agassiz deposit in the Winnipeg Area. The subsoils for the most part consist of a series of glacial clays of medium to stiff consistencies for thickness of about 50 feet underlain by 10 feet of glacial till on limestone bedrock. The study also indicated under what condition it is practical to support light to medium weight structures on spread footings subject to certain precautions. Heavier buildings and those structures where very little settlement or heave can be tolerated, were shown to be more appropriately supported on deep foundations, for example friction piles, and end-bearing piles or caissons resting on "hardpan" or bedrock. Furthermore, to make certain of successful design of any engineering structures on the Campus, precautions must be taken against the possible detrimental effects of soil volume change, frost heave, high percentage of harmful sulphates, and severe seepage which may occur in some locations.