ABSTRACT
In order to evaluate the suitability of a foundation or earth structure, it is necessary to design against both bearing capacity failure and excessive settlement. For foundations on cohesive soils, the principal design criterion is typically the latter
the control of expected settlements within the limits considered tolerable for the structure. As a result, once allowable foundation displacements have been established, the estimate of total settlement over the service life of the structure is a major factor in the choice of foundation design.
