Geotechnical Investigations for a Proposed Development Project in Riverside Estate, Nairobi – 2019
Introduction
In 2019, a geotechnical investigation was carried out for a proposed development project in Riverside Estate, Nairobi. The objective of this study was to evaluate the subsurface conditions and provide essential geotechnical data to guide foundation design and construction planning. The investigation included borehole drilling, Standard Penetration Tests (SPTs), groundwater table assessment, and laboratory analysis of soil and rock samples.
Site Investigation and Methodology
A series of boreholes were drilled to extract soil and rock samples, providing insights into the geological formations present at the site. Standard Penetration Tests (SPTs) were conducted at regular intervals to determine soil strength and density, aiding in the selection of appropriate foundation systems. Groundwater level measurements were taken to assess potential water-related challenges that could impact excavation and foundation stability.
Laboratory tests were performed on collected samples to determine key soil properties, including Atterberg limits, grain size distribution, moisture content, shear strength, and compressive strength of rock materials. These tests were instrumental in understanding the engineering behavior of the subsurface materials and forming reliable recommendations for the proposed development.
Findings and Recommendations
The investigation identified a mix of clayey and sandy soils overlying weathered rock. The SPT results indicated moderate to high soil strength, allowing for the consideration of both shallow and deep foundation options depending on structural load requirements. The groundwater table was detected at considerable depths, reducing the likelihood of significant water ingress challenges but still necessitating proper drainage measures.
Based on the findings, it was recommended that reinforced raft foundations or deep pile foundations be adopted, particularly in sections where weaker soils were encountered. Additionally, soil stabilization techniques were suggested for areas with high plasticity soils to mitigate potential settlement issues.
Conclusion
The geotechnical investigation for the proposed development in Riverside Estate provided valuable data that informed foundation design and construction planning. By employing borehole drilling, SPTs, groundwater assessments, and laboratory testing, the study ensured the structural integrity and long-term stability of the project. Conducting detailed geotechnical assessments remains a fundamental step in achieving safe and resilient construction in Nairobi’s dynamic urban environment.
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