摘要
Foundation is considered as one of the main parts of any structure. The type of foundation used is highly dependent on the type and properties of soil. The design of foundations requires many factors that should be defined. There are number of differences in the geological and soil conditions in Iraq. As a consequence, these differences are reflected on the type of foundation to be used. Despite these differences, same materials and style of buildings are used all over Iraq. The main problems of Iraqi soil are high gypsum content, salinity and shallow water table depth. These factors that influence the foundations are the soil properties and the amount of loads that transmitted by the superstructure. The situation has been analysed through a case study which illustrated the link between soil and foundation types in three different parts of Iraq （Mosul, Baghdad and Basra）. One building was analysed using ＂STAAD （structural analysis and design）. Pro＂ software in these regions. It is evident that Iraqi designers and engineers require local code to define all the loads, materials and design of the foundation to be used. The use of local materials might be very effective from both engineering and economic perspectives.
