In some cases, it may be appropriate to use total stress parameters c and f in order to calculate
the ultimate bearing capacity. For example, a structure (such as an oil tank or grain-elevator) could
be constructed and then sufficient time elapses so that the saturated plastic soil consolidates under
this load. If an oil tank or grain elevator were then quickly filled, the saturated plastic soil would be
subjected to an undrained loading. This condition can be modeled by performing consolidated
undrained triaxial compression tests (ASTM D 4767-02, 2004) in order to determine the total stress
parameters (c and f). Based on the f value, the bearing capacity factors would be obtained from
Fig. 6.6 and then the ultimate bearing capacity would be calculated from Eqs. 6.1 or 6.5.