ABSTRACT
One-dimensional compression, in which deformation takes place in the direction of loading only, has a particular significance in soil mechanics and foundation engineering. The natural loading and unloading of a soil stratum-for example during the deposition and erosion of overlying material-generally take place under conditions of one-dimensional compression, because lateral strains at any point are prevented by the surrounding soil. This mode of deformation is often assumed to be approximately appropriate for soil subjected to vertical loads from pad, strip and especially raft foundations (Figure 4.1).
