APPLICATION OF STATISTICAL ANALYSIS ON THE DYNAMICS OF FOUNDATION STUDIES USING GEOPHYSICAL PARAMETERS IN A TYPICAL SEDIMENTARY ENVIRONMENT, SOUTH SOUTH NIGERIA

Abstract

A statistic is found useful in many applications of science where data and analysis are used for illustration and description for better understanding and justification of the data sets. Therefore in an attempt to achieve a better understanding and illustration of the dynamics of foundation integrity and vulnerability of failure, which often remain a major challenge to mankind, especially in Nigeria where foundation failures remain a major concern to both the Government and citizen. In this present study, a statistical approach was carried out on the Geophysical parameters in Issele-Mkitim area, South South Nigeria, to evaluate the dynamic factors that affect foundation integrity and vulnerability of subsurface lithologies. Very Low Frequency Electromagnetic (VLF-EM), Magnetic, and Electrical Resistivity Methods were used in this study. The Electrical Resistivity Method involved Lateral Horizontal Profiling (LRP) utilizing Wenner configuration. The three (3) methods correlated in terms of statistical prediction and understanding of the geologic dynamics natured associated with foundation failure and integrity. It was deduced that profiles one to six has high tendency of weak geological material which can easily lead to subsidence if any engineering construction is erected on it. However, proper consideration must be put in place to avoid future differential settlements. All the methods give useful information about the dynamics of the geological trends from the preliminary data analysis and interpretations, and a better understanding of the geodynamics nature of the soil as well as the region of a weak and competent zone in terms of engineering constructions.