👉 Settlement engineering is the scientific discipline focused on understanding, predicting, and mitigating the deformation of structures due to soil movement or other external forces. It involves analyzing how soil and its properties interact with the built environment, particularly in terms of settlement—the gradual downward movement of a structure's foundation. Engineers use various methods, including soil testing, geotechnical modeling, and monitoring techniques, to assess potential settlement risks. By optimizing foundation designs, selecting appropriate soil stabilization methods, and implementing effective drainage systems, settlement engineering aims to ensure structural integrity, safety, and longevity. This field is crucial in construction, especially for large infrastructure projects like dams, bridges, and high-rise buildings, where even minor settlement can lead to significant structural issues or failures.
