Different geomorphologic zones of coral reef demonstrate different geological engineering behaviors and mechanical properties. In order to investigate the engineering behaviors and its regularity

a series of tests including plate loading test

deep spiral plate loading test

compaction test and resilience modulus test is conducted on different zones in Yongxing Island

South China Sea. Engineering mechanical parameters including bearing capacity

deformation modulus

rebound modulus of coral reef are obtained. The test results show that the bearing capacity and deformation modulus of artificial calcareous soil ground are higher than those of reef flat foundation and sand bar foundation. The bearing capacity of artificial calcareous soil ground ranges from 320 to 360 k Pa

and its deformation modulus ranges from 95 to 200 MPa. The bearing capacity of ground satisfies the requirement of low-rise buildings. As settlement of calcareous ground accompanies instantaneously under loading

fast loading method can be adopted in the plate loading test. The bearing capacity of subgrade above underground water table increases with increasing depth

but decreases below underground water table. The modulus of resilience increases with compaction. It can reach a range from 472 to 730 MPa with the degree of compaction over 87%.