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There is an increasing demand for modern infrastructure to cater for the ever rising human population. To address this demand, built structures to be provided have to be designed based on adequate soil investigations, among other requirements. It is on this basis that this book has been developed. The book will provide the reader with principles in laboratory soil testing that are currently performed for construction purposes. Several chapters designated as; Soils and Clay minerals, Elementary Soil characteristics, Soil classification, Soil Permeability, Soil Shear Strength, Soil Compaction and California Bearing Ratio, and Soil Consolidation and Settlement are covered. An exposure to worked-out examples and problems are included so as to evaluate the reader´s behavioral change during the learning process. Solutions for all problems and a glossary have been included for self reliance of the text. Students pursuing Diploma and Degree programs that require soil mechanics as a unit will find the contents essential. Furthermore, practicing engineers will find the book vital when undertaking tasks that are of building and civil engineering concern.

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Wycliffe H. Namwiba studied Bachelor of Science Degree at Nairobi University and Professional Master Degree at ITC-Delft, Netherlands. Former field geologist in Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Developer of Construction Based Curricula, Lecturing Soil Mechanics and Engineering geology at Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya.

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