Coupled effects of moisture, salinity, and filtration on soil strength for engineering-geological investigations
Abstract
This study examines the coupled effects of moisture content, salinity, and filtration processes on soil strength within the framework of engineering-geological investigations for buildings and infrastructure. Particular attention is given to soils exposed to prolonged water interaction, where changes in moisture regime and salt migration significantly affect physical and mechanical behavior. The research combines field observations, laboratory testing, and hydrogeological interpretation to assess variations in shear strength, compressibility, and related engineering properties under different soil-moisture and salinity conditions. Supportive aerial and remote-sensing information was used at the preliminary assessment stage to identify areas potentially prone to excessive moisture and salinization. The results indicate that increased moisture and active filtration processes accelerate salt redistribution and may reduce soil strength and compaction performance, thereby affecting foundation reliability. The novelty of the study lies in clarifying the combined influence of moisture, salinity, and filtration on soil behavior in engineering-geological investigations and in formulating practical considerations for safer foundation design in saline areas.