干旱区生态环境知识资源中心

This paper presents preliminary results of a research project aimed at the use of field tests in the study of foundations in collapsible soils. The area of an agricultural school that presents damages in the buildings due to differential settlements caused by collapse of the soil was chosen to be an experimental site. The area is located in a region of semi-arid climate, in Petrolandia City, in the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. Several studies of field and laboratory tests have been carried out in the site. In this paper the emphasis will be given on the use of Menard pressuremeter test in the identification of the collapsible soil and in the prediction of collapse settlement of two collapse plate load tests carried out in the place. The results of the pressuremeter tests indicate applicability of this equipment in collapsible soils, although more information are necessary for the development of an adequate methodology of design to these types of soils.