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CONTENTS PAGE NO:

Letter of Transmittal………………………………………………… [ ii ]
Table of Contents........................................................................ [ iii ]
1. Introduction................................................................................. [01]
2. Purpose of Investigation............................................................. [01]
3. Scope of Work............................................................................ [1-3]
4. General Geology……………………………………………………. [3-6]
5. Site Description.......................................................................... [06]
6. Subsoil Conditions and Description........................................... [06]
7. Hydrology & Hydrogeology……………………………………….. [6-7]
8. Field and laboratory tests.......................................................... [7-12]
9. Discussion................................................................................. [13-14]
10. Engineering recommendations................................................. [15-19]
ATTACHMENTS PLATE NO
Site Location Plan……………………………………………………. 1
Borehole Location Plan……………………………………………… 2
Supplemental Borehole Location Plan……………………………… 2A
Borehole logs…………………………………………………………. 3 to 66
Borehole correlation chart…………………………………………… 67
Trial Pit Logs………………………………………………………….. 68 to 77
Legend for borehole/ Trail Pit logs…………………………………. 78
Soil/Rock Definitions…………………………………………………. 79
Annexure 1 Falling Head Permeability……………………………… 80
Annexure 2 Pressure meter Test…………………………………… 81
Annexure 3 Downhole Shear Wave Test…………………………… 82
Annexure 4 Natural moisture content………………………………. 83
Annexure 5 Particle Size Distribution………………………………. 84
Annexure 6 Hydrometer……………………………………………… 85
Annexure 7 Atterberg’s Limit ……………………………………….. 86
Annexure 8 Bulk Density…………………………………………….. 87
Annexure 9 MDD-OMC……………….……………………………… 88
Annexure 10 CBR……………………………………………………… 89
Annexure 11 Direct Shear Test……………………………………… 90
Annexure 12 Triaxial Test……………………………………………. 91
Annexure 13 Brazilian/ Slake Durability of Rock…………………... 92
Annexure 14 Unconfined Compressive Strength + Modulus…….. 93
Annexure 15 Point Load Test………………………………………… 94
Annexure 16 Chemical test results…………………………………… 95
Annexure 17 Piezometer readings…………………………………… 96
Appendix - 1. ………………..……….……………………………….. 97 to 100
Appendix - 2………..………………………………………………….. 101 & 102
Appendix – 3…………………………………………………………… 103
Site Picture…………………………………………………………….. 104 & 105
Core Picture …………………………………………………………… 106 to 165
Trial Pit Pictures………………………………………………………. 166 to 170
Appendix - 4…………………………………………………………… 171 to 185
References……………………………………………………………. 186

DS/623/GIR/R1 /iii/

DTL/F/GEO/ O- 001 Rev. 0 Date: 22/01/2011


1.0 / INTRODUCTION

This report presents the field work and test results of geotechnical investigation of the
proposed site with the following information.

• Employer : M/s. Public Works Authority (ASHGHAL)


• Main Contractor: HBK CONTRACTING CO. WLL
• Supervision Consultant: Khatib & Alami
• Project : FIFA Readiness Project FRP-03A
• Location : Al Thumama, Doha, Qatar

2.0 / PURPOSE OF INVESTIGATION

The main purpose of this study is to determine the surface and subsurface conditions at
the proposed site and to define physical and mechanical properties of the foundation
materials in addition to specifying other engineering characteristics of the encountered
strata. This is in order to guide the designer to achieve an adequate and economic
design of the foundation structure.

3.0 / SCOPE OF WORK

Geotechnical Investigation was made at the proposed site by drilling 60 (sixty)


boreholes and 10 (ten) trial pits as numbered in the borehole location plan plate 2. The
borehole/trial pit locations were agreed by the contractor. The location of the site is given
on Site Location Plan Plate 1.
Boreholes of PQ/NQ mm diameter were drilled down to 10.0-20.0m depths from the
respective borehole levels, using a Beretta T-44/ T-47 Rotary drilling rig. Drilling in soils
was carried out by the Cable Tool Percussion method and in rock by Rotary Fluid Flush
methods. Sampling and subsequent laboratory testing were used to classify various soil
and rock strata.

All the work has been done under the supervision of experienced geologist.
Fieldwork was commenced on 12/01/2020 and was completed on 20/02/2020.

Summary of INSITU Test


Pressuremete Falling Head Downhole
Standard
BH No. r Test Permeability Test Piezometer Shear Wave
Penetration Test
Test
BH-M-01-P Completed Completed Completed - Completed
BH-M-02 - Completed Completed - -
BH-M-03 Completed Completed Completed - Completed
BH-M-04-P - Completed Completed - -
BH-M-05 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-M-06-P - Completed Completed - -

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Summary of INSITU Test
Pressuremeter Falling Head Standard Downhole
BH No. Test Permeability Penetration Piezometer Shear Wave
Test Test Test
BH-M-07 Completed Completed Completed - Completed
BH-M-08-P - Completed Completed - -
BH-M-09 - Completed Completed - -
BH-M-10 - Completed Completed - -
BH-M-11-P Completed Completed Completed - Completed
BH-M-12 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-1-P - - - - -
BH-S-2 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-3 - - Completed - -
BH-S-4 - - Completed - -
BH-S-5 - - Completed - -
BH-S-6 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-7 - - Completed - -
BH-S-8 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-9 - - Completed - -
BH-S-10 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-11 - - Completed - -
BH-S-12 - - - - -
BH-S-13 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-14 - - Completed - -
BH-S-15 - - Completed - -
BH-S-16 - - Completed - -
BH-S-17 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-18 - - Completed - -
BH-S-19 - - Completed - -
BH-S-20 - - Completed - -
BH-S-21 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-22 - - Completed - -
BH-S-23 - - Completed - -
BH-S-24 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-25 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-26 - - Completed - -
BH-S-27 - - Completed - -
BH-S-28-P - - Completed - -
BH-S-29 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-30 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-31 - - Completed - -
BH-S-32 - - Completed - -
BH-S-33 - Completed Completed - -
BH-S-34 - - Completed - -
BH-S-35 - Completed - - -
BH-S-36 - - - - -
BH-S-37 - - - - -
BH-S-38 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-39 - - Completed - -
BH-S-40 - - Completed - -

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Summary of INSITU Test
Pressuremeter Falling Head
Standard Downhole Shear
BH No. Test Permeability Piezometer
Penetration Test Wave Test
Test
BH-S-41-P - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-42 - Completed Completed Installed -
BH-S-43 - - Completed - -
BH-S-44 - - Completed - -
BH-S-45 - Completed - - -
BH-S-46 - - Completed - -
BH-S-47 - - Completed - -
BH-S-48 - Completed Completed - -

4.0/ GENERAL GEOLOGY


The Qatar peninsula is geologically part of the Arabian Gulf Basin, which has
accumulated sediment, with little interruption and has been influenced in only a minor
way by tectonic activity, since the Paleozoic Period. The thickness of sedimentary rocks
overlying basement rocks in Qatar is estimated to be over 10 km. The recent post
Cretaceous geological succession of Qatar can be summarized as a rhythmical
sequence of shallow water marine limestones along with occasional shales and
evaporates. The later two representing accumulations of material from nearby land
masses and precipitation of anhydrites and gypsum in still, shallow basins respectively.
Occasional interruptions to sedimentation have occurred producing minor
unconformities. The formations exposed in the present day Qatar peninsula are all of
Tertiary to Quaternary age.
The geological structure of Qatar can be summarized as comprising a central arch or
dome, the axis of which runs south to north through the centre of the country from
Shahniyah to Al Majidah. The dome then flattens only to reemerge offshore to form the
North Dome, which has gained such importance as a trap for a considerable volume of
natural gas. The uplift has probably been triggered both by migration of deep seated salt
deposits along with the tectonic movement associated with mountain building elsewhere
in the Gulf margins – Zagros (Iran) and the Omani Mountains. In the Central Dome area,
uplift and erosion have resulted in the exposure of the oldest rocks occurring in Qatar,
belonging to the Rus Formation. Other structures within Qatar have had a marked effect
on the current geological exposures of the country – notably the Dukhan Anticline in the
western extremes of the country.

The rocks, which make up the Rus Formation in Qatar are generally whitish or yellowish
chalky dolomitic limestone. Thin beds of greenish to brownish attapulgitic clay are
occasionally intercalated. In addition there are several narrow beds of whitish to grayish
compact fossiliferous dolomitic limestone, the uppermost of which forms the top of the
Rus Formation and is particularly well developed at Al Khor, where it has been used in
the past for construction purposes.

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DTL/F/GEO/ O- 001 Rev. 0 Date: 22/01/2011


A particular feature of the Rus is the occurrence of numerous and extensive beds of
evaporites, mainly gypsum and anhydrite. The gypsum beds, which individually can be
upto 4m thick, are present beneath ground level throughout southern Qatar and extend
northwards to a belt between the Dukhan Anticline the central arch and south of Al Khor.
North of this belt, evaporates are absent from the Rus Formation. This absence is
probably a result of the arch activity, rising during the Lower Eocene, and thus
preventing deposition of evaporates rather than their deposition and subsequent
dissolution. Where present however, the upper beds of gypsum have subsequently been
extensively dissolved by circulating ground waters causing the overlying strata to slump
in place giving rise to the many surface collapse structures common in southern and
central Qatar. Over the southern half of the Qatar the lowermost member of the
Dammam Formation – comprises the attapulgitic shales of the Midra Shale and Dukhan
Alveolina Limestone.

Qatar Geological Map

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A general transgression at the beginning of the Midra Eocene results in a return to
shallow marine deposition across the whole of Qatar and the formation of the Simsima
limestone. The Simsima Limestone is known to be upto 30m thick, the thickest
development being in the extreme north of the peninsula, particularly away from the
central arch. It is believed that a restricted thickness of Simsima Limestone has been
deposited over the Central, Simsima Arches and Dukhan Anticline.
Although the Simsima Limestone forms much of the land surface, its detailed
stratigraphy and lithology are not well known, since exposures giving a complete cross-
section do not exist. A general description of the Simsima however, as described by
Cavalier (1970) and others would be a fine to medium grained off-white to pale brown
and buff, poorly bedded, chalky crystalline calcareous limestone and dolomitic limestone
with numerous vugs and irregular joints often filled with weaker siltstone. Thin layers of
pale green or red brown attapulgitic clays are occasionally present. Chert bands occur
throughout the Simsima but are particularly notable near to the base and to the top.

Main Lithological Units of Qatar

DS/623/GIR/R1 Page 5 of 19

DTL/F/GEO/ O- 001 Rev. 0 Date: 22/01/2011


Although the Simsima Limestone forms much of the land surface, its detailed
stratigraphy and lithology are not well known, since exposures giving a complete cross-
section do not exist. A general description of the Simsima however, as described by
Cavalier (1970) and others would be a fine to medium grained off-white to pale brown
and buff, poorly bedded, chalky crystalline calcareous limestone and dolomitic limestone
with numerous vugs and irregular joints often filled with weaker siltstone. Thin layers of
pale green or red brown attapulgitic clays are occasionally present. Chert bands occur
throughout the Simsima but are particularly notable near to the base and to the top.

5.0 / SITE DESCRIPTION


The proposed site was located in Al Thumama area of Qatar. It was bordered on all the
sides with undeveloped plots, existing structures or roads. At the time of investigation,
the site was almost flat to the adjacent roads. BH-M series of boreholes belong to Micro-
Tunneling locations. The maximum ground level was +13.01m [QNHD] (i.e borehole BH-
S-32) and minimum was +6.185m [QNHD] (i.e TP-07).

6.0 / SUBSOIL CONDITIONS AND DESCRIPTION


The nature of subsurface lithology as encountered by borehole drilling, described in
accordance with BS 5930: 2015, is summarized below. A section through boreholes is
presented on the borehole correlation chart, plate 67, A, B, C & D.

Depth SPT/UCT
Description
Range (m) Range
Light grey to greyish brown silty gravelly to very gravelly
medium to fine/ fine to medium SAND, gravels are sub
rounded to sub angular OR Dark brown silty very sandy
0 - >50 fine to coarse GRAVEL OR light greyish to brown thinly
0.0-13.5
UCT laminated fine to medium grained marly LIMESTONE
partially to distinctly weathered, contains occasional voids
of 10-40mm filled with marl, medium to close spaced
fracture
Light brownish to yellowish offwhite thinly laminated fine
to medium grained marly LIMESTONE partially to
13.5-20.0 UCT
distinctly weathered, contains occasional inclusion of silt
& gypsum, medium to close spaced fracture
SPT: Standard Penetration Test; UCT: Unconfined Compressive Strength

Ground water table was encountered at depths ranging from 3.15-9.0m depths below
the investigated ground level. Measurement of ground water level was taken on the day
following the completion of fieldwork. Measured ground water table may be expected to
vary due to seasonal conditions or any dewatering in the vicinity.

7.0 / HYDROLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY


The proposed site was located in Al Thumama area of Qatar. Eight boreholes namely M-
05, S-06, S-08, S-10, S-21, S-38, S-41P & S-42 were used to install the piezometer and
readings were recorded from 15th Jan 2020 to 18th Feb 2020 as given in Annexure 16
plate 95.

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DTL/F/GEO/ O- 001 Rev. 0 Date: 22/01/2011
In-situ falling head permeability tests were carried out on thirty boreholes as given in
Annexure-1 plate 80. Moreover, field water and soil quality test is given in Annexure 1A
plate 80A.

As per the geological study, there are two main groups namely Group 1 & Group 2 at
Micro-tunneling locations of the sites under study. Group 1 comprises of boreholes M1,
M3, M7 & M11 while Group 2 comprises of boreholes M2, M4, M5, M6, M8, M9, M10 &
M12. The groundwater was encountered at depths ranging from 5.30-8.40m in four
boreholes of group 1 while it was ranging between 4.55-7.44m in eight boreholes at the
time of investigation in group 2.

8.0 / FIELD AND LABORATORY TESTS


8.1 / FIELD TESTS
8.1.1 STANDARD PENETRATION TESTS:
Standard penetration tests (SPT's) were conducted regularly at 0.5m intervals up to
3.0m and thereafter at 1.0m intervals up to the investigated depth in accordance with the
drilling procedure specified in BS 5930:2015. SPT were carried out at the base of each
inspection pit.
The test was carried out using an automatic drop hammer assembly, which utilizes an
automatic trip mechanism to release the weight all in accordance with BSEN ISO 22476-
3: 2005+A1: 2011. Results are presented on borehole log plates 3 to 66.

8.1.2 / ROTARY CORING


Rotary coring was carried out in rock strata using a diamond drilling bit in accordance
with the rotary coring procedure specified in BS 5930: 2015. The cores were extracted
and thereafter stored in labeled boxes after wrapping the cores in cling wrap to prevent
moisture loss. Results of RQD (Rock Quality Designation), TCR (Total Core Recovery)
and SCR (Solid Core Recovery) are presented in borehole log plate 3 to 66.

8.1.9 / INSPECTION PITS


Sixty inspection Pits at the location of boreholes were excavated manually up to
maximum 2.0m depth. Disturbed samples were taken from the inspection pit and test
were carried out for moisture content, Sieve Analysis, Atterberg’s Limit, MDD-OMC,
CBR, Bulk density, Direct Shear & Chemical analysis.

8.1.3/ IN-SITU FALLING HEAD PERMEABILITY TEST:


In-situ falling head permeability tests were carried out on thirty boreholes in accordance
with BS 5930:1999+A2:2010 Section 4 Clause 25.4. The results are presented on
Annexure 1 Plate no. 80.

8.1.4/ PIEZOMETER INSTALLATION:


In-situ piezometer was installed out on 8 boreholes namely M-05, S-06, S-08, S-10, S-
21, S-38, S-41 & S-42 in accordance with BS 5930:2015. Daily report of Piezometer is
given in Annexure 16 plate 95.

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DTL/F/GEO/ O- 001 Rev. 0 Date: 22/01/2011
8.1.5 / PRESSURE-METER TEST
Pressure-meter Tests on 28 No soil/rock strata samples were carried out on 4
boreholes at each 3.0m depth intervals. The test is done as per ASTM D4719-07.
Reports on Pressure-meter tests are presented on Annexure 2 plate 81.

8.1.6 / DOWNHOLE SIESMIC TEST


Downhole Seismic Tests on soil/rock strata samples were carried out on 4 boreholes.
The test is done as per ASTM D 7400-08. Reports on Downhole seismic tests are
presented on Annexure 3 plate 82.

8.1.7 / SUMMARY OF GEOPHYSICAL REPORT

The following area of weak rock/soil are encountered during the MASW survey works.
The overlapping of the boreholes with the geological ground profile is shown in
Appendix-4 plate 171.

ANOMALY LIST
Anomaly Size
Line Coordinates
Code Of Sub Anomaly Risk Area
Anomaly Center Max. Max . Vs Value
& Anomaly (Low,
Name Depth Vertical Horizontal (Min.-Max.) Remarks
Borehole ID Center Medium,
below Thickness Expand m/s
(For (X)m High)
description) Surface (m) (m)
(m)
MASW Line No. 1 has suspected
weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense
01 Line_01 material at varying depths between ground level down
to 8 m and 10-12 m depth
(Velocity range 200 m/s to 500 m/s)
MASW Line No. 3 has suspected
Line_03 weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense
02
(BH-M1) material at 0-1 m & 5-7 m depth
(Velocity range 200 m/s to 400 m/s)
Weak
MASW Line No. 5 has suspected
Line_05 weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense Low
03 or
(BH-M3) material at 1- 4 m depth
(Velocity range 200 m/s to 300 m/s) Risk
Fractured
MASW Line No. 10 has suspected
weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense Areas
04 Line_10 Rock
material at 0-0.5 m, & 6-8 m depth
(Velocity range 200 m/s to 300 m/s)
Zones
MASW Line No. 12 has suspected
weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense
05 Line_12
material at 0-1 m depth
(Velocity 200 m/s)
MASW Line No. 13 has suspected
Line_13 weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense
06
(BH-M12) material at 0-1 m depth
(Velocity 200 m/s)

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MASW Line No. 14 has suspected
Line_14 weak/weathered/fractured zones with less dense
07
(BH-M5) material at 0-1 m & 7-8 m depth
(Velocity range 200 m/s to 300 m/s)
(the depths are mentioned with reference to QND
Total Anomaly Number “7” elevation levels)

8.1.8 / TRIAL PITS


Ten (10) Trial Pits were excavated manually up to the rock strata or 1.5m depth
whichever occurred first as per procedure specified in BS 5930: 2015 & QCS 2014. The
soil/gravel samples were collected for every 0.5m depth and thereafter stored in labeled
plastic bags to prevent moisture loss. The samples were brought to lab for Sieve
Analysis, Atterberg’s Limit, Maximum Dry Density, CBR and chemical tests. The Trial
Pits are presented in trial pit log plates 68 to 77.
8.1.9 / INSPECTION PITS
Sixty inspection Pits at the location of boreholes were excavated manually up to
maximum 2.0m depth. Disturbed samples were taken from the inspection pit and test
were carried out for moisture content, Sieve Analysis, Atterberg’s Limit, MDD-OMC,
CBR, Bulk density, Direct Shear & Chemical analysis.

8.2 / LABORATORY TESTS

Soil, Rock and water samples recovered from the boreholes were subjected to
laboratory testing for moisture content, Sieve Analysis, Atterberg’s Limit, MDD-OMC,
CBR, specific gravity, Direct Shear, Brazilian, Durability, UCT, Point Load Test, and
Chemical analyses.

8.2.1 / NATURAL MOISTURE CONTENT ON SOIL SAMPLES


Natural moisture content on soil strata samples were carried out on 70 nos. samples
collected from borehole/ trial pits. The test is done as per BS-1377 Part 2: 1990 Cl.3.2.
Reports on natural moisture content of soil samples are presented on Annexure 4 plate
83.

8.2.2 / SIEVE ANALYSIS ON SOIL SAMPLES


Particle Size Distribution Tests (SA) on soil strata samples were carried out on 55 nos.
samples collected from borehole/ trial pits. The Sieve Analysis is done as per BS-1377
Part 2: 1990 Test 9.2. Reports on Sieve Analysis of soil samples are presented on
Annexure 5 plate 84.

8.2.2 / HYDROMETER TEST ON SOIL SAMPLES


Hydrometer Tests (SA) on soil strata samples were carried out on 49 nos. samples
collected from borehole/ trial pits. The Sieve Analysis is done as per BS-1377 Part 2:
1990 Test 9.5. Reports on Hydrometer tests of soil samples are presented on Annexure
6 plate 85.

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8.2.3 / ATTERBERG’S LIMITS ON SOIL SAMPLES
Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit tests (LL & PL) on soil samples were carried out on 54 nos.
samples collected from borehole/ trial pits as per BS 1377 Part 2:1990 Test 4.3 &5.
Report on Liquid Limit and Plastic Limit of soil sample is presented in Annexure 7 plate
86.
Depth Liquid Limit Plastic Limit Plasticity Index
BH/TP
(m) (LL) (PL) (PI)
BH-M-1(P) 0.0-1.30 47 25 22
BH-M-2 0.5-0.90 44 30 14
BH-M-03 0.0-0.5 43 27 16
BH-M-04 0.0-0.70 32 20 12
BH-M-06 (P) 0.0-0.50 62 38 24
BH-M-07 1.0-1.50 45 27 18
BH-M-08(P) 0.1-0.5 42 24 18
BH-M-09 0.1-0.5 52 28 24
BH-M-10 0.5-1.0 43 25 18
BH-M-11 (P) 0.5-1.0 45 27 18
BH-M-12 0.0-0.90 44 26 18
BH-S-02 0.0-1.3 42 23 19
BH-S-04 0.0-2.0 24 15 9
BH-S-04 5.0-7.45 66 34 32
BH-S-05 1.0-1.5 46 28 18
BH-S-06 0.5-1.0 39 27 12
BH-S-08 0.0-0.5 34 21 13
BH-S-10 4.0-7.45 71 38 33
BH-S-11 0.0-0.90 34 Non Plastic Non Plastic
BH-S-12 0.0-0.50 37 24 13
BH-S-14 1.5-2.0 35 22 13
BH-S-16 1.0-1.50 44 25 19
BH-S-18 0.0-0.70 46 27 19
BH-S-20 0.0-0.50 39 23 16
BH-S-21 1.0-1.5 45 26 19
BH-S-22 0.2-0.5 49 31 18
BH-S-24 0.85-1.45 34 21 13
BH-S-26 0.0-0.7 47 26 21
BH-S-27 3.0-5.45 89 48 41
BH-S-28(P) 0.90-2.0 57 31 26
BH-S-28(P) 2.0-9.95 62 37 25
BH-S-30 0.95-1.50 55 33 22
BH-S-32 0.0-0.5 54 31 23
BH-S-33 5.50-7.95 77 42 35
BH-S-34 0.0-0.50 46 30 16
BH-S-36 0.0-0.50 31 22 9
BH-S-37 0.90-1.25 43 26 17
BH-S-38 1.0-1.50 27 19 8
BH-S-41 (P) 0.5-1.0 38 21 17
BH-S-41 (P) 7.0-9.45 34 21 13
BH-S-42 0.5-1.0 35 22 13
BH-S-44 1.0-2.0 63 33 30
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Depth Liquid Limit Plastic Limit Plasticity Index
BH/TP
(m) (LL) (PL) (PI)
BH-S-46 0.0-0.5 47 28 19
BH-S-48 0.0-1.40 50 27 23
TP-01 0.0-0.1 47 26 21
TP-02 0.0-0.50 44 27 17
TP-03 0.0-0.90 34 22 12
TP-04 0.0-1.50 42 24 18
TP-05 0.0-0.90 41 23 18
TP-06 0.0-0.5 50 29 21
TP-07 0.0-0.7 56 37 19
TP-08 0.0-1.5 48 26 22
TP-09 0.0-1.0 52 28 24
TP-10 0.0-1.0 59 34 25

8.2.4 / BULK DENSITY OF SOIL


Particle density test on soil samples were carried out on 30 nos. samples collected from
borehole/ trial pits as per BS 812 Part 2:1995 Test 6. Report on particle density of soil
sample is presented in Annexure 8 plate 87.

8.2.5 / MAXIMUM DRY DENSITY – OPTIMUM MOISTURE CONTENT ON SOIL


SAMPLES
MDD-OMC on soil samples were carried out on 27 nos. sample collected from borehole/
bulk/trial pits as per BS 1377:4:1990 CML-12-97. Reports on MDD-OMC of soil samples
presented in Annexure 9 plate 88.

8.2.6 / CALIFORNIA BEARING RATIO (CBR) TEST ON TRIAL PIT SOIL SAMPLES
California Bearing Ratio Tests (CBR) on soil strata samples were carried out on 17 nos.
samples collected from boreholes/bulk sample excavated as per QCS 2014 Section 3
Part 3. The CBR test is done as per BS-1377 Part 4: 1990 Clause 7+CML 10-97.
Reports on CBR of soil samples are presented on Annexure 10 plate 89.

BH/TP No. Depth, m California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Swelling After Finish Soaking
(%) Period(96 h) (%)
BH-M-03 0.0-0.5 54 0.12
BH-M-07 1.0-1.50 43 0.17
BH-M-11 (P) 0.5-1.0 56 0.13
BH-S-05 1.0-1.5 23 0.23
BH-S-10 0.5-1.0 29 0.23
BH-S-11 0.0-0.90 35 0.20
BH-S-32 0.0-0.5 38 0.17
BH-S-38 1.0-1.50 57 0.15
BH-S-41 (P) 0.5-1.0 52 0.14
BH-S-42 0.5-1.0 24 0.14

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BH/TP No. Depth, m California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Swelling After Finish Soaking
(%) Period(96 h) (%)
TP-01 0.0-1.50 33 0.16
TP-03 0.0-0.90 17 0.20
TP-05 0.0-0.90 16 0.15
TP-06 0.0-0.50 15 0.21
TP-08 0.0-1.50 14 0.17
TP-10 0.0-1.0 42 0.15

8.2.7/ DIRECT SHEAR TEST:


Direct Shear tests were carried out on 30 borehole/bulk samples in accordance with BS
1377 Part 7: 1990 Clause 4.5.4. The results are presented on Annexure 11 Plate no. 90.

8.2.8 / TRI-AXIAL TEST ON SOIL SAMPLES


Unconfined-undrained (UU) Tri-axial Tests on soil strata samples were carried out on 10
nos. samples collected pfrom boreholes. The Tri-axial test is done as per BS-1377 Part
7: 1990 Clause 8. Reports on Tri-axial tests are presented on Annexure 12 plate 91.

8.2.9/ BRAZILIAN & SLAKE DURABILITY OF ROCK SAMPLES:


Brazilian tests were carried out on 10 No. of rock samples from boreholes in accordance
with ASTM D3967-16
Slake durability tests were carried out on 10 No. of rock samples from boreholes in
accordance with ASTM D3967-16.
The results are presented on Annexure 13 Plate no. 92.

8.2.10 / UNIAXIAL COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF ROCK SAMPLES


Uniaxial (unconfined) compressive strength tests (UCT) on rock samples were carried
out on 144 no. samples and with elastic moduli were carried out on 20 no. of samples
collected from boreholes as per ASTM D 7012: 14ɛ1. Report on UCT of rock sample is
presented on Annexure 14 plate 93.

8.2.11 / POINT LOAD TEST ON ROCK SAMPLES


Point load tests (PLT) on rock strata samples were carried out on 159 nos. sample
collected from borehole drilled as per ASTM D 5731: 16. Reports on PLT of rock are
presented on Annexure 15 plate 94.

8.2.12 / CHEMICAL ANALYSIS


Chemical tests were carried out on 48 Nos. representative soil/water samples. Results
are presented on Annexure 16 plate 95.
Sulphate and chloride content tests were carried out in accordance with BS1377, 1990
part 3 Amd 9028: 1996 tests 5.3/5.5 and 7.2 respectively. pH was determined as per
BS1377, 1990 part 3 Amd 9028: 1996, test 9.5.

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9.0 / DISCUSSION
The proposed construction is FIFA Readiness Project FRP-03A, Al Thumama.
The site reveals the following points:
• The site was almost flat & was in same level as the adjacent (asphalt) road level.
• The ground water table was found at the depth ranging from 3.15-9.0m (+2.262
to +6.98m QNHD) below the investigated ground level.
• The maximum ground level was +13.01m [QNHD] and minimum was +6.185m
[QNHD].
• The following ground and groundwater conditions are to be kept in mind, while
making the excavation works near these boreholes.
• Cut and cover method can be used for the shallow excavations or shaft locations.
G.W.T, m G.W.T. m Elevation m
S.No. BH/TP Northing Easting
bgl [QNHD] [QNHD]
1 BH-M-01(P) 387693 234911 7.60 +3.712 +11.312
2 BH-M-02 387310 235087 5.75 +3.72 +9.47
3 BH-M-03 387159 234653 6.10 +3.73 +9.83
4 BH-M-04(P) 387010 234332 4.55 +5.415 +9.965
5 BH-M-05 387167 235221 5.23 +3.806 +9.036
6 BH-M-06(P) 387255 235455 4.75 +5.57 +10.32
7 BH-M-07 386895 235605 5.30 +3.046 +8.346
8 BH-M-08(P) 386744 235254 6.32 +3.933 +10.253
9 BH-M-09 386677 235045 6.18 +3.913 +10.093
10 BH-M-10 386568 234668 7.44 +4.062 +11.502
11 BH-M-11(P) 386411 234309 8.40 +4.24 +12.64
12 BH-M-12 386923 235233 6.22 +3.812 +10.032
13 BH-S-01 387513 234211 6.83 +4.26 +11.09
14 BH-S-02 387560 234404 5.75 +4.517 +10.267
15 BH-S-03 387604 234583 6.53 +4.031 +10.561
16 BH-S-04 387877 235116 4.70 +3.467 +8.167
17 BH-S-05 387864 235231 5.90 +3.765 +9.665
18 BH-S-06 387860 235538 4.60 +3.386 +7.986
19 BH-S-07 387615 235095 4.78 +3.723 +8.503
20 BH-S-08 387454 234674 5.45 +4.522 +9.972
21 BH-S-09 387461 234077 6.60 +5.121 +11.751
22 BH-S-10 387298 233893 6.77 +5.198 +11.968
23 BH-S-11 387254 234135 6.80 +4.55 +11.35
24 BH-S-12 387081 233846 5.12 +5.352 +10.472
25 BH-S-13 386945 233953 5.90 +4.712 +10.612
26 BH-S-14 387071 234115 5.85 +4.736 +10.586
27 BH-S-15 387138 234326 6.31 +4.446 +10.756
28 BH-S-16 387184 234520 6.01 +5.143 +11.153
29 BH-S-17 387246 234716 5.26 +4.656 +9.916
30 BH-S-18 387535 235378 4.32 +3.544 +7.864
31 BH-S-19 387620 235498 3.95 +3.286 +7.236
32 BH-S-20 387592 232655 3.95 +3.701 +7.651
33 BH-S-21 387406 235793 4.10 +2.8 +6.90
34 BH-S-22 387342 235611 5.15 +3.25 +8.40

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G.W.T. m Elevation m
S.No. BH/TP Northing Easting G.W.T, m bgl
QNHD QNHD
35 BH-S-23 387183 235797 4.41 +2.79 +7.20
36 BH-S-24 386960 236002 4.68 +2.293 +6.973
37 BH-S-25 386896 235396 5.60 +3.696 +9.296
38 BH-S-26 387068 235056 6.60 +3.706 +10.306
39 BH-S-27 386814 234974 6.70 +3.421 +10.121
40 BH-S-28(P) 386911 234803 6.45 +4.042 +10.492
41 BH-S-29 386945 234597 5.90 +4.183 +10.083
42 BH-S-30 386745 234671 6.30 +4.073 +10.373
43 BH-S-31 386727 234590 6.98 +4.332 +11.312
44 BH-S-32 386390 234480 9.0 +4.01 +13.01
45 BH-S-33 386243 234376 7.20 +3.986 +11.186
46 BH-S-34 386157 234519 8.10 +4.002 +12.102
47 BH-S-35 386222 234790 7.60 +3.552 +11.152
48 BH-S-36 386284 235001 5.90 +6.98 +12.88
49 BH-S-37 386365 235178 6.20 +3.526 +9.726
50 BH-S-38 386509 235342 7.30 +3.68 +10.98
51 BH-S-39 386393 235515 6.0 +3.105 +9.105
52 BH-S-40 386581 235581 6.81 +2.752 +9.562
53 BH-S-41(P) 386635 236015 4.41 +2.262 +6.672
54 BH-S-42 386852 234339 6.57 +4.362 +10.932
55 BH-S-43 387121 235676 4.20 +2.955 +7.155
56 BH-S-44 386979 235771 3.15 +3.503 +6.653
57 BH-S-45 387954 235348 6.0 +4.371 +10.371
58 BH-S-46 387409 233669 7.10 +5.082 +12.182
59 BH-S-47 387273 233598 6.90 +5.415 +12.315
60 BH-S-48 387762 235034 5.29 +3.573 +8.863
61 TP-01 387570 235300 - - +6.77
62 TP-02 387367 234821 - - +8.95
63 TP-03 387384 234284 - - +9.46
64 TP-04 387068 233982 - - +9.14
65 TP-05 386907 234485 - - +9.18
66 TP-06 387060 235177 - - +9.58
67 TP-07 387051 235966 - - +6.19
68 TP-08 384449 235751 - - +7.25
69 TP-09 386419 235165 - - +8.54
70 TP-10 386243 234484 - - +10.77

The other investigations done in Al Thumama region describes almost same type of
strata description as revealed in 60 boreholes. Location of 24 additional boreholes are
shown in plate 2A were done previously for other clients.
Based on the above conditions the following option can be adopted prior to placing
shallow foundations.

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10.0 / ENGINEERING RECOMMENDATIONS
10.1 / RECOMMENDED BEARING PRESSURE
Allowable bearing pressures as given in Table-1 are recommended for isolated /
combined footings of width 1-4m, strip or raft foundation placed at different depths
below the average (natural) ground level. These allowable bearing pressures are
based on the standard penetration test (SPT ‘N’), UCT & RQD values; the compaction
mentioned below and incorporates a factor of safety of at least 3 on the ultimate bearing
pressure assuming ground water to rise to the foundation level.

Table-1 Net Allowable Bearing Pressure


Net Allowable Bearing Pressure Modulus of
Group Footing Depth, (kN/m2) Subgrade
Borehole Number
No. m Isolated / Raft foundation Reaction
combined Ks kN/m3
3.0 – 6.0 120 135 16,500
1 M1, M3, M7 & M11 7.0 – 10.0 150 190 19,800
11.0 – 14.0 160 210 21,100
0.5 – 2.5 100 125 13,200
M2, M4, M5, M6, M8,
2 3.0 – 6.0 140 165 16,500
M9, M10 & M12
7.0 – 10.0 130 170 19,100
S1, S2, S3, S8, S9, S11,
S13, S14, S15, S18, 0.5 – 2.5 120 145 13,200
3 S19, S24, S25, S32,
S34, S35, S38, S39, 3.0 - 6.0 100 120 11,800
S43 & S44
S4, S5, S10, S16, S27, 0.5 – 2.5 150 180 13,500
4 S28, S29, S30, S33,
& S41 3.0 – 6.0 160 200 17,000
S6, S7, S12, S20, S21, S22,
S23, S26, S31, S36, 0.5 – 2.5 200 240 26,000
5 S37, S40, S42, S45,
S46, S47 & S48 3.0 – 6.0 250 290 29,700
Note: Calculation is given in Appendix 3; Recommendation for BH-S17 is not given because of big voids found

► Excavations at the foundation level mentioned above shall be compacted to at least


95% of the maximum dry density of the soil using a heavy roller.
► Compaction tests shall to be carried out for each compacted layer to confirm the
aforementioned percentages of compaction.
► Suitable precautions shall be ensured during excavations and foundation placement
works for excavations exceeding 2.0m.
► The total and differential settlements under the above loading are estimated to be
less than 25 mm and 10 mm respectively for isolated / combined footings and less
than 50mm for raft foundation. This should not cause any problem.
► Since the ground water table was encountered at depths ranging from 3.15-9.0m
(+2.262m[QNHD] to +6.98m[QNHD]) below the investigation ground level,
dewatering is necessary and shall be carried out to at least 0.5m below the above
foundation levels at the time of construction.
► A very effective protection system to stop the ingress of ground water entering the
foundation by seepage shall be considered in this case.
► BH-S-17 has found big voids/cavities therefore grouting is required to be done before
making any foundation near to this borehole.

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10.2/ EXCAVATION SIDE SLOPE
To minimize the instability problems, the excavation sides should be cut at a face
inclination not eeper than 1.5 horizontal to one vertical (1.5H: 1V) for the cohesion less
soil and one horizontal to Six vertical (1H: 6V) for the limestone strata.
If the recommended side slopes could not be achieved due to insufficient lateral distance
or any other reason, temporary and/or permanent lateral support (shoring) system will be
necessary and shall be installed.
10.3/ SOIL/ ROCK PARAMETERS:
The following parameters required are estimated at a depth (Table-2, 3) based on the
SPT, RQD & UCT values within the first 20.0m depth below the average (natural) ground
level.
Table-2 (Group-1)
Depth below the excavated ground level (m)
Soil Parameters
0.0 – 2.0 2.0 - 6.0 6.0-10.0 10.0-16.0 16.0-20.0
Average Bulk Density :  kN/m3 15.0 19.5 20.5 20.0* 21.0*
Modulus of Elasticity: E MPa 15 30 60 140 180
Av. Angle of shearing Resistance :  35 38 36 38 39
Av. Coefficient of Active Pressure :
a 0.27 0.24 0.26 0.24 0.23

Av. Coefficient of Passive Pressure :


p 3.69 4.20 3.85 4.20 4.39

Av. Coefficient of Pressure at rest:


o 0.43 0.38 0.41 0.38 0.37

* Saturated Density
Table-3 (Group-2)
Depth below the excavated ground level (m)
Soil Parameters
0.0 – 1.0 1.0 - 13.0 13.0-15.0
Average Bulk Density :  kN/m3 15.0 19.5 20.5*
Modulus of Elasticity: E MPa 15 35 120
Av. Angle of shearing Resistance :  32 36 38
Av. Coefficient of Active Pressure :  a 0.31 0.26 0.24

Av. Coefficient of Passive Pressure :  p 3.25 3.85 4.20

Av. Coefficient of Pressure at rest: o 0.47 0.41 0.38


* Saturated Density

10.4/ BACKFILL MATERIAL:


The backfill material should be used as engineering fill or subgrade material is defined in
Qatar Construction Specification (QCS 2014) Section 12 Part 3 Earthworks, and should
comply with the following specification:
1. The maximum nominal particle size shall be 75mm
2. The material used shall be clean and free from unsuitable material. Unsuitable
material is defined as:

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• Material from marshes
• Tree plants and stumps
• Perishable material
• Material of liquid limit exceeding 35%
• Material of plasticity Index exceeding 10
• Deposits of sabhka exceeding more than 10 % acid soluble salt and 5%
water soluble salts
• Material subject to spontaneous combustion
• Soil containing more than 2% organic material
• Soils having more than 20% passing the 0.075mm sieve
Based on test results of Atterbeg’s limit and Sieve Analysis the excavated material cannot
be used for backfilling.
10.5 / Prevailing Weather Condition
As per the report of Qatar Department of Civil Aviation & Meteorology for the long period
means and extremes of climatological elements of Doha International Airport, 1997, State
of Qatar has similar climatic conditions everywhere. Qatar is situated on the western
coast of the Arabian Gulf where a hot arid climate prevails. A hot arid climate is one
where evaporation exceeds precipitation – such as rain and dewfall. This climate regime
produces characteristic hot desert terrains. The following meteorological information is
set out here for general guidance:-
Temperature & Pressure:-
• Average summer maximum shade temp. 490 C
• Maximum recorded shade temp. 520 C
• Average winter minimum shade temp. 120 C
• Minimum recorded shade temp. 00 C
• Maximum external surface temp. (Direct exposure to sun) 840 C
• Average barometric pressure 0.98 bar
Relative Humidity:-
• Annual average humidity 62%
• Absolute maximum humidity 100%
• Absolute minimum humidity 1%
The maximum humidity generally occurs during the winter months of December and
January, but humidity of 100% is possible throughout the year. Humidity of 100% at 270
C has been recorded. At the time of maximum summer temperature the relative humidity
may be up to 64%.
Rainfall:-
• Average annual rainfall 80mm
• Maximum recorded annual rainfall 302mm
• Minimum recorded annual rainfall < 1mm
Wind:-
• Prevailing wind direction from NW to NNW
• Maximum sustained for 10 minutes 75 km/h
• Maximum gust velocity 100 km/h
• Design wind speed (ground level in all directions) 130 km/h

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Wind speed in Doha is often quoted as 38m/s, as specified in QCS 2014.
10.6/ SEISMICITY & TECTONICS OF THE AREA
The seismicity of the area showed that there is very limited information and data about
Qatar and the whole region. Among these studies, Morsy, 1997, concluded from the data
obtained from Qatar seismic stations that most of the activities with large effect are on
the eastern flank of the Arabian Gulf area (Iran).
However, with less activity, the locations of local events are concentrated in three main
zones: in the North, Northeast and the west of Qatar. Earthquakes are related to crustal
movements and occur most frequently where folding and faulting are of recent origin.
If earthquakes have occurred in particular region which is characterized by some
particularly in its tectonic structure and history then it is assumed to be likely that
earthquake can arise in the future along the whole length of that zone. The Oman
Mountains from together with Zagros Mountains a great mobile belt. This appeared in
late cretaceous period with orogenic movements occurring in Turkey and Iran and
extending to Oman.
In the later Tertiary period rocks were folded and thrusted to form the Zagros and Oman
mountains and their forelands. Adjoining the mobile belt is the comparatively stable
interior region of the Peninsula whose rigidity is controlled by the Pre-Cambrian
basement. The exposed part of the shield, as well as the part thinly veneered with shield
sediments, makes up this province. Based on QCS 2014, the seismic design for all
building structure shall be based upon local seismic accelerations recommended as per
ASCE 7-10, IBC 2012 or BS EN 1998-1:2004. Local seismic spectral accelerations
based upon uniform hazard response spectra for 475 year and 2475 year return period
as below:
Table-4
0.2 Second Spectral Acceleration (g)- 1 Second Spectral Acceleration (g) –
Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA)
Ss S1
475 Year 2475 Year 475 Year 2475 Year 475 Year 2475 Year
0.045 0.10 0.090 0.147 0.045 0.065

Table-5 Site Classification


Site Class ⱱs , ft/s N or Nch su, psf
A Hard rock >5000 NA NA
B. Rock 2500 to 5000 NA NA
C Very dense soil and soft
1200 to 2500 >50 >2000
rock
D Stiff soil 600 to 1200 15 to 50 1000 to 2000
E Soft clay soil < 600 < 15 <1000
Any profile with more than 10 ft of soil having the following
characteristics:
- - -Plasticity index PI > 20
-Moisture content w ˃40%
-Undrained shear strength su < 500 psf
F Soils requiring site
response analysis in See Section 20.3.1 of
accordance with Section ASCE 7-10
- -
21.1

The foundation will lie near the bedrock. Thus, upon earthquake loading the ground is not
susceptible to liquefaction.

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Note:
1. At the time of foundation construction, this office shall be contacted to carry
out compaction or other tests if recommended in our report at random
locations selected by us in which case only a letter of confirmation can be
issued for the Safe Bearing Pressure and foundation levels.
2. In case of piles, this office shall be contacted for pile integrity tests without
which a confirmation letter cannot be issued.
3. For more detailed notes on the limitations of these recommendations as well as
guides to good engineering practice in selecting sulphate class and concrete,
Appendix-1 on plates 97 to 100 shall be referred.

10.7 / CHEMICAL CONDITIONS


The results of chemical analysis presented on annexure 16 plate 95 show sulphate
content (water soluble as SO4) ranging from 380 to 2290 mg/l, chloride content (water
soluble) ranging from 0.01% to 0.57% and pH value ranging from 7.90 to 8.90. The
groundwater samples tested had sulphate (SO4) content ranging from 137 to 1794 mg/l,
chloride (Cl) content ranging from 219 to 1794 mg/l and pH value ranging from 7.13 to
10.43.
The available chemical results have been assessed for the requirements for the
protection of buried concrete using Table 6.2 of QCS 2014 Section 5 Part 6. Sulphate
exposure class “S2” is applicable to the site. Based on this, the recommended durability
requirement to resist sulphate attack as per QCS 2014 is tabulated below in Table 6.
Table 6 Recommended Durability Requirement to Resist Sulphate Attack
Sulphate Exposure Exposure class for Minimum Concrete
Cementitious Type
Class reinforcement Grade
C40 Triple Blend
S2 X3
C50 SRPC, PC/FA, PC/GGBS

The effect of soil and groundwater chloride concentrations on buried concrete


reinforcement will need to be considered by the structural design engineer.

Requirements Strength Class


Minimum Concrete Cover (mm) 70
Minimum cement content 335
Maximum free water cement ration (%) 0.50

In addition, it is recommended that the outer surface of the concrete be protected with a
waterproof coating / membrane.
However, prior to finalizing and adopting a mix design, appropriate consultation with the
structure engineer is advised.

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