Understanding Groundwater’s Impact on Engineering Construction
Groundwater is a significant factor that influences engineering construction projects, exerting effects on design, functionality, and overall costs. Its presence beneath the earth’s surface, stored in aquifers within rock fractures and soil pore spaces, can lead to various challenges during and after construction. During construction, groundwater can impact the project in several ways: Foundation Stability: Saturated soil resulting from floods or high groundwater levels can weaken the foundation’s stability, leading to cracks and structural damage. Soil Strength Reduction: Rising groundwater levels can decrease soil strength, potentially causing slope failures and compromising the integrity of the construction. Unstable Excavation: Groundwater seepage into excavated areas can destabilize the site, leading to safety hazards and construction delays. Cost Overruns: Dealing with groundwater-related issues may lead to unexpected expenses and project delays, affecting the overall const...