Foundation failures from inorganic contamination

Case-histories reported in literature bring out the detrimental effects of chemical contamination of foundation clay soils in terms of distress to the structures founded on them. The present paper reviews four case-histories reported in literature which pertain to foundation failures from spillage of inorganic acids and alkalis into the ground. Chemical reactions between the spilled chemicals and foundation soils caused heaving and reduction in strength of the foundation soils. Based on the physico-chemical mechanisms involved, re-mediation measures are suggested to amend the distress caused to the ground from inorganic contaminant attack. Chemical stabilization of acid contaminated foundation soils with lime and of alkali contaminated soils with ferric chloride solution are suggested to counter the ground distress from acid and alkali attacks.