Geotechnical Factual Report On Deatiled Design For Mombasa Special Economic Zone Development Project

PROPOSED MOMBASA SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
GEOTECHNICAL FACTUAL REPORT
FOR
GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION FACTUAL REPORT

ON THE DETAIL DESIGN FOR MOMBASA SPECIAL ECONOMMIC ZONE
DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
Prepared for:
NIPPON KOEI CO. LTD
Prepared by:
SOUTHERN ENGINEERING CO. LTD
8th April, 2021
Issued Verified Approved

Ver. Date Status Prepared by
by by by
Submitted for
14.04.2021 R.O R.O S.A.O
approval
Geotechnical Factual Report on Detailed Design for construction of Mombasa
Special Economic Zone Development Project
CONTENTS
1|Page
LIST OF FIGURES 3
2|Page
LIST OF TABLES 4
3|Page
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
1.1 General Overview.......................................................................................................1

1.2 Scope of service..........................................................................................................1
1.3 Codes of practice.........................................................................................................3
4|Page
2.0 DESKTOP STUDY 4
2.1 Site description............................................................................................................4

2.1.1 About Site......................................................4
2.1.2 General Site Geology.....................................4
5|Page
3.0 FIELD WORK AND METHOD 6
3.1 Field work...................................................................................................................6

3.1.1 Borehole Drilling...........................................6
3.1 2 Rock Drilling 8
3.2 Sampling & Field Test..............................................................................................10

3.2.1 Disturbed SPTs and Core sample................10
3.2.2 Standard Penetration Test (SPT).................11
3.2.3 CBR Test.....................................................11
6|Page
4.0 BOREHOLE LOGGING 17
4.1 Rock logging description..........................................................................................17

4.1.1 Total Core Recovery (%TCR).....................17
4.1.2 Rock Quality Designation (%RQD)............17
4.2 Rock description........................................................................................................18

4.3 Soil description..........................................................................................................19
7|Page
5.0 SITE LITHOLOGY 21
8|Page
6.0 LABORATORY TESTING 32
9|Page
APPENDICES 33
Appendix 1: Borehole location plan........................................................................................33

Appendix 2: Borehole Logs and Sample photos......................................................................33
Appendix 3: Geological Profiles..............................................................................................33
Appendix 4: Site Photos...........................................................................................................33
10 | P a g e
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Borehole location plan showing road boreholes and CBR points...................................2
Figure 2 Location plan showing onshore and offshore borehole points........................................3
Figure 3 Disturbed SPTs and bulk soil samples...........................................................................10
Figure 4 Rock Core Box samples.................................................................................................10
Figure 5 Surface preparation........................................................................................................13
Figure 6 Sample extraction..........................................................................................................14
Figure 7 Sample storage...............................................................................................................15
Figure 8 AB Section A-A.............................................................................................................22
Figure 9 QW Section A-A............................................................................................................22
Figure 10 QW Section B-B..........................................................................................................23
Figure 11 QW Section C-C..........................................................................................................23
Figure 12 QW Section D-D..........................................................................................................24
Figure 13 QW Section E-E...........................................................................................................24
Figure 14QW Section F-F............................................................................................................25
Figure 15 QW Section G-G..........................................................................................................25
Figure 16 QW Section H-H..........................................................................................................26
Figure 17 QW Section I-I.............................................................................................................26
Figure 18 Y Section A-A.............................................................................................................27
Figure 19 Y Section B-B..............................................................................................................27
Figure 20 Y Section C-C..............................................................................................................28
Figure 21 Y Section D-D.............................................................................................................28
Figure 22 Y Section E-E..............................................................................................................29
Figure 23 Y Section F-F...............................................................................................................29
Figure 24 Y Section G-G.............................................................................................................30
Figure 25 Y Section H-H.............................................................................................................30
11 | P a g e
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 Showing borehole drilling locations.................................................................................6

Table 2 Boreholes drilling details..................................................................................................8
Table 3 Location for CBR Tests..................................................................................................11
Table 4 Summary of CBR test results..........................................................................................15
Table 5 RQD classifications.........................................................................................................17
Table 6 Rock strength classification............................................................................................18
Table 7 Weathering grades...........................................................................................................19
Table 8 Soil description based on SPT.........................................................................................19
Table 9 Soil shear strength classification.....................................................................................20
12 | P a g e
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 General Overview
Following the detailed design and prior to commencement of construction of Shimoni Port
Jetty, Southern Engineering Co. Ltd was commissioned to perform geotechnical investigations
at the proposed Mombasa Special Economic Zone so as to ascertain the sub surface conditions
and close the gap in knowledge of the geologic condition of the area which will allow for
confidence in the detailed design analysis and development of the project including pavement,
foundation design and other auxiliary structures.
This report represents the desktop study of the area together with the factual geological and
geotechnical ground characterization that was made possible by borehole investigation, field
tests and sampling at site.
Whilst every attempt was made to record full details of the strata encountered in the
borehole, techniques of holes formation and sampling inevitably lead to disturbance, mixing or
loss of materials in some soils. The investigation was carried out in accordance with BS10175
Investigation of potentially Contaminated Sites: Code of Practice (2001).
The laboratory testing will be carried out in accordance with recommendations of British
Standards (BS 1377-7) and the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) designated D
2938-79.
All information given in this report is based on the ground conditions encountered during the
field work. This report therefore presents a best estimate of the likely ground conditions at
foundations for the structures.
1.2 Scope of service
The scope of services included geotechnical investigation through borehole drilling at forty six
(46) borehole locations as shown in the drawing presented in figure 1 and Appendix 1 below
for Geotechnical Investigation to a maximum 46m depths below the existing ground level/sea
1|Page
bed level. Figure 1 shows the onshore and offshore borehole location plans across the site.
The scope of work for the Geotechnical Investigation is as summarized as follows:
 Boring and sampling of 18No. Boreholes – Offshore
 Boring and Sampling of 24No. Boreholes - Near shore/onshore.
 Boring and sampling of 4No. Boreholes – Onland/Road
 Conduct CBR tests – 7No CBR tests
 Laboratory testing of the various different materials of soils and rock collected during
the sampling campaign
 Analyses of the in-situ and laboratory tests results to determine the physical and
mechanical properties of soil samples recovered from field boring.
 Preparing geotechnical report with recommendation of suitable foundation solutions
to the desired structures to be erected
Figure 1 Borehole location plan showing road boreholes and CBR points
Figure 2 Location plan showing onshore and offshore borehole points
2|Page
1.3 Codes of practice
The field works were executed generally in accordance with the British Standards BS 5930-
1999 “Code of Practice for Site Investigations", B522475-2 "Geotechnical Investigations
and testing", BS1377-2, "Methods of Testing Soils for Engineering Purposes", AASHTO Guide
for Design of Pavement Structures (1993, 2002)
2.0 DESKTOP STUDY
2.1 Site description
2.1.1 About Site
The planned SEZ is located at Dongo Kundu in Mombasa, next to Mombasa

Island in the opposite shore of Mombasa port. The total area is 12 km2 (1,200
ha).
Dongo Kundu Bypass starts in the neighbourhood called Miritini, on the Nairobi–
Mombasa Highway, approximately 11 kilometres (7 mi), and northwest of the
central business district of Mombasa. From there it loops around the western
edge of Mombasa International Airport and ends at a neighbourhood called
Mwache at the water's edge, west of the airport. From Mwache, several bridges
carry the highway across the Port Reitz Bay to Dongo Kundu on the south-side of
the bay. From Dongo Kundu the highway continues in a south easterly direction
3|Page
until it ends at Ng’ombeni, on the Malindi–Bagamoyo Highway. The entire

bypass highway measures approximately 17.5 kilometres.
2.1.2 General Site Geology
2.1.2.1 Geology
The Geology of Kenyan Coast is dominated by rifting and breakup of the Paleozoic Gondwana
continent and the development of the Indian Ocean. The Proterozoic gneisses of the
Mozambique belt from the basement of intracratonic basin, filled with continental permo-
Triassic classics.
The Geology of the project area mainly comprises:
i. The flat coastal plain which includes; The Island division;
ii. The broken severely dissected and eroded belt that consists of the Jurassic Shale
overlain in places by residual clayey and sandy plateau;
iii. The undulating plateau of sandstone and corals divided from the Jurassic belts by a
scarp fault to the south.
2.1.2.2 Soils
The soils are varied both physically and chemically depending on their geographical location.
The soils found around the project area include:
i. Soils developed on higher level lagoon (Kilindini sands, these are light soils with
very low fertility; they are excessively drained and very deep). Dominant soil in the
project area
ii. Soils in the mangrove swamps, they are poorly drained, very deep and excessively
saline with medium to heavy texture.
iii. Soils (clay soils) developed in shale, they are well to imperfectly drained, shallow to
moderately deep
4|Page
3.0 FIELD WORK AND METHOD
3.1 Field work
To obtain the geotechnical data needed for pavement, foundation and other geotechnical
parameters necessary for the detailed foundation design, different activities not limited to
borehole drilling, visual observations, in-situ tests and sampling were carried out in the field
between 13th December, 2020 and 28th March, 2021.
The field work involved two major phases:
1. Rotary drilling of 46 boreholes with hydraulic feed rig to a minimum depth of
6m and a maximum of 46m and carrying out maximum recovery of drilled
soil/cores
2. Performance in-situ tests comprising of Standard Penetration Test and every
1m up to 20m and 1.5m below 20m depth.
3.1.1 Borehole Drilling

The boreholes investigation was conducted in accordance with the British Standards B55930-
1999" Code of Practice for Site Investigations", the B522475-2 "Geotechnical Investigations
and testing", and BS1377-2, "Methods of Testing Soils for Engineering Purposes".
5|Page
Borehole drilling was undertaken on forty six (46) positions as identified in the layout plan and
marked by the client in the scope of works (see Table 1 and 2 below).
Borehole drilling was conducted up to a minimum depth of 6m and a maximum of 46m depth,
the borehole was drilled by means of GY-150T, XY200 and GY250 Rotary drilling rig with water
flush, then observations and recording phases conducted, following disturbed samples (if
required) was collected. Visual assessment was implemented for all the boreholes. The
samples from the entire borehole were subjected to testing in Third Party laboratory.
Table 1 Showing borehole drilling locations
BH ID NORTHINGS EASTINGS ELEVATION DESCRIPTION

RBH1 9547738.557 566928.786 49.054 On Shore
RBH2 9547967.889 567421.820 51.678 On Shore
RBH3 9549116.132 568796.369 36.247 On Shore
YBH1 9550863.717 567872.588 1.454 On Shore
YBH2 9550827.222 567912.382 1.987 On Shore
YBH3 9550792.364 567948.276 2.093 On Shore
YBH4 9550759.531 567986.350 2.121 On Shore
YBH5 9550720.297 567967.566 2.501 On Shore
YBH6 9550727.273 568067.199 1.851 On Shore
YBH7 9550734.470 568167.007 1.339 On Shore
YBH8 9550626.021 567873.874 3.216 On Shore
YBH9 9550633.010 567973.574 3.191 On Shore
YBH10 9550637.613 568072.935 2.092 On Shore
YBH11 9550645.406 568170.543 1.529 On Shore
YBH12 9550538.735 567879.943 3.178 On Shore
YBH13 9550545.700 567979.654 3.333 On Shore
YBH14 9550552.690 568079.379 2.645 On Shore
YBH15 9550559.502 568179.645 1.758 On Shore
YBH16 9550463.894 567885.227 5.275 On Shore
YBH17 9550470.876 567984.841 3.402 On Shore
YBH18 9550465.907 568085.476 3.209 On Shore
YBH19 9550472.885 568185.310 2.408 On Shore
YBH20 9550373.318 567992.246 3.670 On Shore
YBH21 9550378.098 568091.521 3.521 On Shore
YBH22 9550388.460 568187.033 3.168 On Shore
YBH23 9550784.052 567686.465 3.450 On Shore
YBH24 9550670.800 567529.280 5.070 On Shore
SBH1 9551144.502 567797.726 -2.387 Off Shore
SBH2 9551145.337 567846.008 -2.228 Off Shore
6|Page
SBH3 9551148.160 567896.210 -2.045 Off Shore

SBH4 9551153.988 567946.830 -2.080 Off Shore
SBH5 9551155.985 567996.905 -0.760 Off Shore
SBH6 9551156.786 568049.116 -2.788 Off Shore
SBH7 9551163.433 568089.314 -3.775 Off Shore
SBH8 9551111.296 568099.055 0.391 Off Shore
SBH9 9551110.984 568051.388 -0.014 Off Shore
SBH10 9551103.943 567999.371 -0.043 Off Shore
SBH11 9551103.265 567951.354 -1.045 Off Shore
SBH12 9551101.500 567900.526 -1.874 Off Shore
SBH13 9551097.901 567851.724 -1.689 Off Shore
SBH14 9551094.012 567800.546 -2.274 Off Shore
SBH15 9551043.976 567814.714 -1.293 Off Shore
SBH16 9550993.567 567817.701 0.322 Off Shore
SBH17 9550942.563 567821.388 0.646 Off Shore
SBH18 9550899.738 567840.816 1.433 Off Shore
B-1 9548536.760 568157.099 53.190 On Shore
3.1 2 Rock Drilling

Coring was performed by conventional method and using a double tube retractable swivel-
type, a 3 meter long T2-86mm (borehole size 86mm) core barrel 71.7mm in diameter to
enable suitable core recovery. A diamond bit (86mm) with reamer fitted at the lower end of
the T-2 drilling rods was used to cut through the soil/rock formation at an interval of 1.1m and
the soil/rock cores retrieved.
Rock coring commenced with drilling in rocks and in silty Clay formation of weathered shale
sections. Core drilling continued on through competent shale rock and discontinuity sections
to the borehole termination depth. Table 2 below shows the drilled boreholes and their
depths.
Table 2 Boreholes drilling details
BORE HOLES Total Depth BORE HOLES Total Depth
1 SBH - 01 39.50 YBH - 01 42.50
2 SBH - 02 38.00 YBH - 02 44.00
3 SBH - 03 38.00 YBH - 03 46.00
4 SBH - 04 38.00 YBH - 04 38.00
5 SBH - 05 39.00 YBH - 05 41.00
7|Page
6 SBH - 06 44.00 YBH - 06 39.50
7 SBH - 07 42.50 YBH - 07 39.50
8 SBH - 08 39.50 YBH - 08 16.00
9 SBH - 09 42.50 YBH - 09 26.00
10 SBH - 10 41.00 YBH - 10 39.50
11 SBH - 11 39.50 YBH - 11 36.50
12 SBH - 12 39.50 YBH - 12 19.00
13 SBH - 13 39.50 YBH - 13 25.00
14 SBH - 14 41.00 YBH - 14 29.00
15 SBH - 15 39.50 YBH - 15 27.50
16 SBH - 16 42.50 YBH - 16 20.00
17 SBH - 17 44.00 YBH - 17 17.00
18 SBH - 18 41.00 YBH - 18 20.00
19 RBH - 01 30.00 YBH - 19 14.00
20 RBH - 02 10.00 YBH - 20 20.00
21 RBH - 03 10.00 YBH - 21 8.00
22 TB1 10.00 YBH - 22 10.00
YBH - 23 20.00
YBH - 24 6.00
After drilling and sampling, visual description was performed along with a tape measure
to identify geological profile, colors, geological structure, weathering condition etc., and
recorded in logs as presented in Appendix 2.
The recovered soil/rock cores after coring were examined during preliminary logging after
which the core boxes were clearly labeled and kept in a secured location for further
examination and transportation to the materials laboratory for further testing. The following
parameters were included in the final geological logs as presented in Appendix 2:
i) Rock Quality Designation (RQD)
ii) Solid Core Recovery (SCR)
iii) Fracture Spacing Index (FSI)
iv) Jointing
8|Page
v) Weathering Grade and

vi) Percentage Core Recovery
HW 113mm, HW 110mm and 127mm casings were also used in all the borehole areas with
incompetent formations.
Sampling details were specified by the engineering geologist on site as per the scope of work.
Geotechnical samples were taken and returned to the laboratory for classification and
Laboratory testing. The samples recovered from drilling were properly identified and stored in
sample bags and core boxes. Geological log description and photographs were carried out
before any sampling for laboratory testing was done.
3.2 Sampling & Field Test
3.2.1 Disturbed SPTs and Core sample

Disturbed SPTs and Core samples were collected at 1m depth intervals and especially where
there was a formation change. After careful visual observations, the collected samples based
on design requirements, some soil samples were selected at various depths intervals for
laboratory test. All samples were labeled and identified according to borehole number and
depth before transportation to the Laboratory (see figure 3 and 4).
Figure 3 Disturbed SPTs and bulk soil samples
9|Page
Figure 4 Rock Core Box samples
3.2.2 Standard Penetration Test (SPT)

The in-situ Standard penetration test (SPT) testing was carried out in accordance with
guidelines in British Standards BS 5390:1999, ASTM D-1586-99 or other equivalents. The tests
were carried out at intervals of 1.0m within 20m depth and at 1.5m interval after 20m depth
at each borehole using a split barrel sampler. Detailed record of SPT is presented in the
borehole logs appended in Appendix 2
During Standard Penetration Test in soil formation at every specific interval, split-spoon
sampler was applied. The basis of the test consisted of dropping with a free fall a standard SPT
hammer of a mass 63.5 kg on to a drive head from a height of 760 mm. The number of blows
(N) necessary to achieve a penetration of the split-barrel sampler of 300 mm was recorded as
the penetration resistance (N).
Then if hard rock surface of which SPT N-value usually more than 50 blow counts with very less
or without any penetration was encountered, the rock coring with diamond bit-core barrel
and/or dry coring sampler was performed at specified range in order to obtain the rock sample
for rock type identification and also for further laboratory testing.
10 | P a g e
3.2.3 CBR Test
The locations of the trial pits for CBR tests were identified by the client see table 3 below for
summary of the locations. A total of two trial pits had been fully excavated to 3 metres on the
first day, while the remaining six were excavated on the second and final day. As soon the
sampling was completed all the trial pits were backfilled properly and to satisfaction.
Table 3 Location for CBR Tests
Coordinates
Trial Pit Depth (m)

X Y
TP 1 566876.5550 9547709.3750 3.0
TP 2 567379.0750 9547954.7920 3.0
TP 3 567692.6840 9548083.9940 2.0
TP 4 568334.7570 9548578.9800 2.0
TP 5 568837.2250 9549150.6210 2.0
TP 6 568887.6830 9549927.7140 2.0
TP 7 568280.6970 9550053.3150 3.0
TP 8 568201.5020 9550114.3750 3.0
The following gives a brief summary of the soil encountered in each of the trial pit.
Trial pit No. 1

Trial pit No. 1 comprises of yellowish Brown Silty Sand at the sampling depth of 3.0m
Trial pit No. 2
Trial pit No. 2 comprises of reddish Brown Silty Sand at the sampling depth of 3.0m
Trial pit No. 3
Trial pit No. 3 comprises of yellowish Silty Sand at the sampling depth of 2.0m
Trial pit No. 4
11 | P a g e
Trial pit No. 4 comprises of yellowish Silty Sand at the sampling depth of 2.0m
Trial pit No. 5
Trial pit No. 5 comprises of brownish to light grey clay at the sampling depth of 2.0m
Trial pit No. 6
Trial pit No. 6 comprises of yellowish brown to light grey fragmented shale particles at the
sampling depth of 2.0m
Trial pit No. 7
Trial pit No. 7 comprises of grey to dark grey fragmented shale particles at the sampling depth
of 3.0m
Trial pit No. 8
Trial pit No. 8 comprises of dark grey fragmented shale particles at the sampling depth of 3.0m
3.2.3.1 In situ Soil Sampling

Apparatus:
1. 152mm diameter cylindrical CBR mould of 177mm height with a sharp cutting end
made from stainless steel,
2. Collar
3. Steel spacer
4. Spirit level
5. Chisel
6. 8 kgs rammer
7. Tape measure
8. Masking tape
3.2.3.2 Sampling Procedure (BS 1377: Part 9: 1990)

1. Surface preparation
The bottom of the excavated pit was cleared of any unevenness and debris.
Figure 5 Surface preparation
12 | P a g e
2. Flatness or
monitoring
the level
Spirit level was
then placed on
the ground to
check for the
flatness to
ensure the
sampler
penetrates perpendicularly into the soil surface.
3. Hammering
The sampler assembly was placed with the cutting edge on the ground, collar and the lid at
the top. Hammering was done carefully until after the sampling mould and collar had fully
penetrated into the ground.
4. Mould assembly and sample extraction
Once the perfect depth was achieved, the process of removing the sampler with the sample
inside started. This was done quite tactfully by excavating around the sampler using a chisel
until the full depth of penetration was reached and finally the sampler inside with the
specimen was removed
13 | P a g e
Figure 6 Sample extraction
5. Sample Storage
The recovered samples were wrapped using aluminum foil to protect it from in situ moisture
loss and later placed in an airtight bucket then transported to the laboratory for testing.
14 | P a g e
Figure 7 Sample storage
3.2.3.3 CBR Laboratory testing

Sample Preparation:
Trimming: This was done carefully on both ends of the sampler, flatness and perpendicularity
checked with the spirit level and a try square
Testing:
Testing of the trimmed specimen inside the sampler was carried out in a manner as described
in BS 1377: Part 4: 1990 Edition for the purpose of establishing the California bearing ratio of
the recovered samples
See attachment below for the CBR, Densities and Moisture contents results obtained.
Table 4 Summary of CBR test results
Coordinates Dry Moisture

Density content
Trial Pit Depth (m) CBR Values
X Y
(Kg/m3) (%)
(%)
TP 1 3.0 566876.5550 9547709.3750 1588 6.5 15.5
TP 2 3.0 567379.0750 9547954.7920 1590 5.7 4.8
15 | P a g e
TP 3 2.0 567692.6840 9548083.9940 1661 7.6 7.0
TP 4 2.0 568334.7570 9548578.9800 1566 4.8 3.4
TP 5 2.0 568837.2250 9549150.6210 1413 29.7 9.1
TP 6 2.0 568887.6830 9549927.7140 1475 14.0 9.2
TP 7 3.0 568280.6970 9550053.3150 1754 14.2 12.5
TP 8 3.0 568201.5020 9550114.3750 1779 13.3 11.3
16 | P a g e
4.0 BOREHOLE LOGGING
4.1 Rock logging description
For the each of the fourteen boreholes drilled, the following parameters have been calculated
as shown in the borehole logs presented in Appendix 2. The descriptions adopted for the
borehole logging were those outlined in BS5930: 1999 Site Investigations.
4.1.1 Total Core Recovery (%TCR)

The Total Core Recovery (TCR) for each borehole at depths where rock or cohesive soil was
encountered and recovered was determined by calculating the ratio of the total length of all
the rock cores recovered to the drilled core run expressed as percentage. All the core sample
recoveries were calculated and shown in the borehole logs contained in Appendix 2.
4.1.2 Rock Quality Designation (%RQD)

The Rock Quality Designation (RQD) for the borehole as respective depths where compact rock
was encountered was determined by calculating the ratio of the sum of all the cores larger
than 10 cm to the drilled core run expressed as percentage. To calculate the RQD, core lengths
were measured along the central line of the cores and their percentage values determined and
described in the logs. From the recovered core samples, the Rock Quality Designation ranges
from very poor in weathered zones to excellent in slightly weathered zones. For reference,
Table 5 shows the classification based on calculated RQD, details of the actual RQDs are shown
in the borehole logs presented in Appendix 2. Based on this classification, the actual RQDs
ranged between very poor on Silty Sand/Clayey Sand and Excellent on cohesive Clay and
competent Shale rock formations
Table 5 RQD classifications
Rock Quality Designation (RQD %) ROCK QUALITY

0 – 25 Very poor
25 - 50 Poor
50 - 75 Fair
75 - 90 Good
90 - 100 Excellent
17 | P a g e
4.2 Rock description
For reference relating to descriptions given in the borehole logs tables 6 and 7 below
respectively gives comparable compressive strength and weathering categories descriptions
used in describing the rock strengths in the borehole logs. Where descriptions have been given
in terms of hardness/strengths in the borehole logs, table 6 provides the comparison with BS
5930:1999 rock strengths.
Table 6 Rock strength classification
UNCONFINED
TERM COMPRESSIVE FIELD DESCRIPTION
STRENGTH MN/m²
VERY WEAK <1.25 Gravel size lumps can be crushed between finger and thumb
WEAK 1.25 – 5.00 Grain size lumps can be broken in half by heavy hand pressure
MODERATELY Only thin slabs, corners or edges can be broken off with heavy hand
5.00 – 12.50
WEAK pressure
MODERATELY
12.50 – 50.00 When held in the hand, rock can be broken by hammer blows
STRONG
When resting on a solid surface, rock can be broken by hammer

STRONG 50.00 – 100.00
blows
VERY STRONG 100.00 – 200.00 Rock chipped by heavy hammer blows
EXTREMELY
>200.00 Rock rings on hammer blows. Only broken by sledgehammer
STRONG
Where the rocks descriptions have been classified in terms of weathering categories as
presented in the borehole logs, table 7 below provides the comparison provided in BS
5930:1999 weathering categories. The determined grade and weathering category at various
depths is described and indicated in the borehole logs.
18 | P a g e
Table 7 Weathering grades
CLASSIFIERS GRADE TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS
FRESH I Parent rock showing no signs of discoloration, strength loss or any other
weathering effect
SLIGHTLY II Rock may be slightly discolored particularly adjacent to discontinuities which may
WEATHERED be open and have discolored surfaces.
MODERATELY III Rock is discolored, discontinuities may be open and will have discolored surfaces
WEATHERED
HIGHLY IV Rock is discolored, discontinuities may be open and have discolored surfaces with
WEATHERED alteration starting to penetrate inwards, intact rock is noticeably weaker, as
determined in the field, than fresh rock
COMPLETELY V Rock is discolored and changed to a soil but the original fabric is mainly preserved.
WEATHERED There are occasional small core stones. The properties of the soil depend in part on
the nature of the parent rock
RESIDUAL VI Soil derived by in-situ weathering, but retaining none of the original texture or
fabric
4.3 Soil description
For reference the following tables 8 give soil description of the cohesive and granular soils
based on Standard Penetration Tests that were referenced for the soil descriptions in the
borehole logs. The SPTs values obtained in the boreholes at various depths are shown in the
borehole logs.
Table 8 Soil description based on SPT
Granular Soils Cohesive Soils
N-Count/30cm Density N-Count/30cm Terms

Penetration Penetration
<4 Very loose <2 Very soft
4-10 Loose 2-4 Soft
10-30 Medium dense 4-8 Firm/Medium stiff
19 | P a g e
30-50 Dense 8-15 Stiff
>50 Very dense 15-30 Very stiff
- - > 30 Hard
The following tables 9 give strength estimates to the description of the cohesive soils as used
for the cohesive soils descriptions in the borehole logs.
Table 9 Soil shear strength classification
TERM UNDRAINED SHEAR STRENGTH kN/m²

Very soft Less than 20
Soft 20 to 40
Firm 40 to 75
Stiff 75 to 150
Very Stiff 150 to 300
Hard >300
20 | P a g e
5.0 SITE LITHOLOGY
A total of 46 cored boreholes together with in-situ SPT and laboratory testing have been
carried out to determine the ground conditions for the proposed construction Mombasa
Special Economic Zone.
The findings from the geotechnical investigation show that below a relatively shallow sea
water level, ranging from 0m to 5m in depth over most of the area where the offshore
boreholes are located are very soft compressible marine clay sediments. All the sediments
within the lagoon are very soft silty clays and very low in strength. Sandy and gravel layers are
present but these are thin and intermittent. An organic content to the clay is present together
with thin layers of peat or coal, probably lignite. There is a general increase in the firmness of
the consistency of the soils with depth as they strengthen from the effects of consolidation
and overburden pressures.
Borehole cross sections detailing water depths, SPT results and depths to the top of residual
bedrock together with depths to a presumed sound bearing stratum are included below in
figures 4 to 6.
All depths in the sections refer to m.s.l
21 | P a g e
Figure 8 AB Section A-A
Figure 9 QW Section A-A
22 | P a g e
Figure 10 QW Section B-B
Figure 11 QW Section C-C
23 | P a g e
Figure 12 QW Section D-D
Figure 13 QW Section E-E
24 | P a g e
Figure 14QW Section F-F
Figure 15 QW Section G-G
25 | P a g e
Figure 16 QW Section H-H
Figure 17 QW Section I-I
26 | P a g e
Figure 18 Y Section A-A
Figure 19 Y Section B-B
27 | P a g e
Figure 20 Y Section C-C
Figure 21 Y Section D-D
28 | P a g e
Figure 22 Y Section E-E
Figure 23 Y Section F-F
29 | P a g e
Figure 24 Y Section G-G
Figure 25 Y Section H-H
30 | P a g e
Underlying the lagoon sediments is bedrock comprising horizontally bedded Kipevu Shale with
subordinate sandstone layers. The bedrock tends to be residual for a few meters, but the
transition to more competent and slightly weathered bedrock is rapid and usually occurs
within 4m from the upper Shale/clay overburden contact. There is little variation at the depth
below m.s.l at which defines the contact between the overburden and the underlying Shale
bedrock. To summarize the findings on the profiles:
- Normally consolidated marine sediments comprising very soft silty clays (with
subordinate sandy and gravelly bands) are present, generally starting between 3.0m to
5.0m below m.s.l. Laboratory results describe the samples in the range of sandy Silt,
sandy Clay to fat Clay of intermediate to high plasticity.
- The marine clays have a thickness ranging from 30 to 35m with 30m being an average.
- Standard Penetration Test results are very low until the lower part of the marine
sediments, usually 5 to 6m above bedrock. There are some exceptions in onshore YBH
boreholes where N values start to gradually increases much as 20m above bedrock.
- Underlying the marine Clays is a layer of residual, completely to highly weathered,
extremely weak to very weak, fissile, shale bedrock. It is likely that the strength of this
rock is well below 3MPa. The thickness of the highly to completely weathered shale
beneath the residual layer is usually between 3m to 4m.
- Underlying highly weathered shale is weak to moderately weak and moderately
weathered Shale (British Standard BS5930, UCS equivalent of 5MPa to 15MPa).
Competent end bearing strata, should piles be the option for the foundations, will fit
the description of hard rock or moderately weathered rock. This stratum is met at
depths ranging from 33m to 38m below the sea floor with an average bearing stratum
depth of 35m.
31 | P a g e
6.0 LABORATORY TESTING
Typical soil samples recovered during the field work will be subjected to laboratory testing.
These tests will be carried out on collected samples and quantities of the tests determined
depending on the ground conditions.
Geotechnical laboratory testing will be generally carried out in accordance with the
recommendations of BS1377: 1990. Methods of Test for Soils for Civil Engineering Purposes,
Parts 1 to 8. Laboratory testing will be carried out at Geoff Griffiths & Associates Engineering
Laboratory, an accredited Independent Material testing and Inspection Centre.
Laboratory tests not limited to the following tests will be conducted on samples in accordance
with schedules of testing issued by the Engineering Geologist and approved by the Client.
Where required, the following test will be carried out on collected samples and tested in
accordance with the listed standards. Detailed laboratory results will be presented in Appendix
5.
The following sets of tests will be performed for alignment soils (disturbed specimens from the
boreholes), based on the observations from the field work:
Table 10 Summary of laboratory tests
Test Category Parameter Standard Remarks

Measured Method
a). Index Test
Classification tests Atterberg Limits BS 1377-2 To classify fine grained soil and the fine
fraction of mixed soil.
Moisture Content BS 1377-2 Frequently carried out as a part of other soil
tests. Read in conjunction with liquid and
plastic limits, it gives an indication of
undrained strength.
Unit weight BS 1377-2 Used in the calculation of forces exerted by
soil.
Grain Size Analysis BS 1377 Sieving methods give the grading of soil
coarser than silt and the proportion passing
32 | P a g e
a). Sieving BS 1377-2 the finest sieve represents the combined

b). Sedimentation BS 1377-2 silt/clay fraction. When the sample contains
silt or clay the test will be done by wet sieving.
The relative proportions of silt and clay will
only be determined by means of
sedimentation tests.
B). Geomechanical One dimensional BS 1377 These tests measure soil parameters mv and
Tests consolidation BS 1377-5 cv for simple calculations of the magnitude
(Standard and rate of settlement of foundations.
(incremental The standard dead weight loading Oedometer
loading) Oedometer is the one in general use. The alternative is the
test hydraulic Oedometer (Rowe cell) in which the
vertical loading and the pore pressures can be
independently controlled.
Unconfined BS 1377-7 This simple test is a rapid substitute for the
Compression undrained Triaxial test. It is suitable only for
Strength (Soil and saturated non-fissured fine grained soil.
Weak rock)
Swelling Pressure BS 1377-5 It is carried out to determine the swelling
Measurements pressure and the swelling or settlement on
saturation. Gives some indication of moisture
sensitivity of rock and possible ranges of
induced pressures on tunnel linings.
Uniaxial BS 1377-7 Carried out on intact samples with no
Compression discontinuities and yields data on the rock
Strength material properties.
Point Load Test BS 1377-7 It will be used to determine rock strength

indexes for use in rock strength classification.
Simple laboratory and field strength test.
Useful aid to core logging.
Uniaxial BS 1377-7 To be carried out on intact samples with no
33 | P a g e
Compression discontinuities and yield data on rock material

Strength with properties. Larger samples may contain one or
measurement of E,v more discontinuities, in which case the data
(Rock) relates to the properties of the rock mass.
Direct Shearing BS 1377-7 Direct shear tests are an alternative to Triaxial
Consolidation tests although the latter are more versatile
Drained (DS-CD) and
more often used
34 | P a g e
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Borehole location plan
Appendix 2: Borehole Logs and Sample photos
Appendix 3: Geological Profiles
Appendix 4: Site Photos
35 | P a g e

Geotechnical Factual Report On Deatiled Design For Mombasa Special Economic Zone Development Project

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Geotechnical Factual Report On Deatiled Design For Mombasa Special Economic Zone Development Project

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

PROPOSED MOMBASA SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT

GEOTECHNICAL FACTUAL REPORT

GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION FACTUAL REPORT

NIPPON KOEI CO. LTD

8th April, 2021

Issued Verified Approved

1.1 General Overview.......................................................................................................1

2.0 DESKTOP STUDY 4

2.1 Site description............................................................................................................4

2.1.2 General Site Geology.....................................4

3.0 FIELD WORK AND METHOD 6

3.1 Field work...................................................................................................................6

3.1 2 Rock Drilling 8

3.2 Sampling & Field Test..............................................................................................10

3.2.2 Standard Penetration Test (SPT).................11

3.2.3 CBR Test.....................................................11

4.0 BOREHOLE LOGGING 17

4.1 Rock logging description..........................................................................................17

4.1.2 Rock Quality Designation (%RQD)............17

4.2 Rock description........................................................................................................18

5.0 SITE LITHOLOGY 21

6.0 LABORATORY TESTING 32

Appendix 1: Borehole location plan........................................................................................33

Table 1 Showing borehole drilling locations.................................................................................6

1.1 General Overview

1.2 Scope of service

Figure 2 Location plan showing onshore and offshore borehole points

1.3 Codes of practice

2.0 DESKTOP STUDY

2.1 Site description

2.1.1 About Site

The planned SEZ is located at Dongo Kundu in Mombasa, next to Mombasa

until it ends at Ng’ombeni, on the Malindi–Bagamoyo Highway. The entire

2.1.2 General Site Geology

3.0 FIELD WORK AND METHOD

3.1 Field work

3.1.1 Borehole Drilling

BH ID NORTHINGS EASTINGS ELEVATION DESCRIPTION

SBH3 9551148.160 567896.210 -2.045 Off Shore

3.1 2 Rock Drilling

BORE HOLES Total Depth BORE HOLES Total Depth

1 SBH - 01 39.50 YBH - 01 42.50

2 SBH - 02 38.00 YBH - 02 44.00

3 SBH - 03 38.00 YBH - 03 46.00

4 SBH - 04 38.00 YBH - 04 38.00

5 SBH - 05 39.00 YBH - 05 41.00

6 SBH - 06 44.00 YBH - 06 39.50

7 SBH - 07 42.50 YBH - 07 39.50

8 SBH - 08 39.50 YBH - 08 16.00

9 SBH - 09 42.50 YBH - 09 26.00

10 SBH - 10 41.00 YBH - 10 39.50

11 SBH - 11 39.50 YBH - 11 36.50

12 SBH - 12 39.50 YBH - 12 19.00

13 SBH - 13 39.50 YBH - 13 25.00

14 SBH - 14 41.00 YBH - 14 29.00

15 SBH - 15 39.50 YBH - 15 27.50

16 SBH - 16 42.50 YBH - 16 20.00

17 SBH - 17 44.00 YBH - 17 17.00

18 SBH - 18 41.00 YBH - 18 20.00

19 RBH - 01 30.00 YBH - 19 14.00

20 RBH - 02 10.00 YBH - 20 20.00

21 RBH - 03 10.00 YBH - 21 8.00