Based on the information provided, the soil described as "sandy clay loam" with an "unconfined compressive strength of 1.25 tsf" and being "dug next to a busy highway" can be classified as a cohesive soil type.
Cohesive soils, such as clay, silty clay, and sandy clay, have the ability to stick together due to their fine particle size and cohesive forces. Sandy clay loam specifically indicates a soil composition with a mixture of sand, clay, and silt, where the clay component contributes to its cohesive nature.
The unconfined compressive strength value of 1.25 tsf refers to the maximum stress that the soil can withstand without undergoing significant deformation or failure. This value is typically used as an indicator of the soil's load-bearing capacity.
Being located next to a busy highway suggests that the soil may be subjected to vibrations, traffic loads, and potential disturbances due to construction activities. Therefore, understanding the soil type is crucial for engineering and construction purposes to ensure appropriate foundation design and stability.
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