UCS (Unconfined Compressive Strength)

Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) measures the maximum axial load a material like soil or rock can withstand when compressed vertically before failing, without any lateral support or confinement. It indicates the material's inherent strength in resisting compression and helps engineers assess stability and suitability for construction or foundation purposes. Essentially, UCS provides a standardized way to determine how strong a material is under pressure, informing design decisions to ensure safety and stability in engineering projects.