RADIER APPLICATIONS IN SOCIAL HOUSING: STRUCTURAL OPTIMIZATION AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract

This article analyzes the application of raft foundation (radier) as a structural solution in social housing projects in Brazil, considering its technical, economic, and environmental aspects. Based on a qualitative approach and bibliographic review, the study examined recent research, technical reports, academic dissertations, and national standards that address the feasibility of using raft foundations in low-income housing developments. The radier, classified as a shallow and continuous foundation, presents significant advantages over conventional systems, such as isolated footings and pile caps, by eliminating steps like deep excavations, complex formwork, and localized backfilling. The monolithic slab allows for uniform load distribution, reducing differential settlements, cracks, and other pathologies that compromise the durability of buildings. Additionally, the system enables faster execution, reduced material waste, and streamlined construction processes. From an economic perspective, it lowers both direct and indirect costs, simplifies construction logistics, and facilitates project standardization at scale. Environmentally, adopting radier reduces the volume of solid waste, the use of wood and steel, and allows for the incorporation of mineral additions in concrete, promoting lower ecological impact. Social benefits were also observed, such as enabling the training of local labor and adapting to diverse regional conditions. The findings demonstrate that radier meets structural performance, sustainability, and economic efficiency criteria, standing out as a replicable and efficient alternative to expand access to adequate housing in Brazil. Finally, the study recommends the systematic adoption of radier in public housing policies, particularly in contexts of rapid urban growth, with a focus on technical efficiency and social return on investment.