CATS office Reference: TERZ/SPT/AWT-02/2020, Date 30 Dec 2020

Subsoil Investigation Report: Plot No. -7, Sarkar Bari

Reference:
A. Your request dated 1 Dec 2020

Dear Sir,

1. In response to reference letter ‘A’, MIST Geotech Lab (TERZAGHI

LAB) of CATS-MIST has completed the geotechnical investigation of
subject mentioned plot. The enclosed factual report describes in details the
investigation of geotechnical aspects with results according to your proposed
project requirements.

2. For any query regarding the information contained in this report, or

with respect to any work performed to date, your communication to us would
be highly appreciated.

Best Regards

Lt Col Mohiuddin Ahmed, PEng

Officer In Charge (OIC)
MIST Geotech Lab
CATS - MIST

Enclosure
1. Subsoil Investigation Report of 9 storied Residential Building, Sarkar Bari, Mirpur D.O.H.S

To:
Army Welfare Trust

i
 SUBSOIL
INVESTIGATION
REPORT

PREPARED BY
Plot No. 07, Road 9, Block A CATS-MIST(CE)
AWT-Sarkar Bari Project GEOTECH LAB
Mirpur DOHS, Dhaka 30 Dec 2020

ii
Client Name: Army Welfare Trust (AWT)

Project: Subsoil Investigation for Proposed 9 storied

Residential Building at Plot 7, Road-9, Sarkar Bari,
Mirpur DOHS

Submitted On
30 December 2020

Prepared By
MIST Geotech Lab (TERZAGHI LAB)
Centre for Advisory and Testing Service (CATS), MIST

Test Dates: 1 Dec 2020 to 4 Dec 2020 (Field)

6 Dec 2020 to 25 Dec 2020 (Lab)

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ......................................................................................... 9

Introduction ............................................................................................................ 10

Objectives and Scope of Works ..................................................................................... 10

Soil Investigation Methodology ..................................................................................... 11

Exploratory Drilling and Field Tests ........................................................................................11

Laboratory Tests .......................................................................................................................12
SPT and Sub Soil Properties ........................................................................................ 12

Laboratory Tests Results ............................................................................................ 14

Dynamic Soil Properties ............................................................................................. 15

Shear wave Velocity(Vs) and Small Strain Shear Modulus(Gmax) .........................................15

Soil Classification Based on Shear Wave Velocity .....................................................................16
Bearing Capacity Analysis Summary ............................................................................. 17

Conclusion and Recommendations ................................................................................ 18

Precautions ................................................................................................................................20
Other Design Considerations ....................................................................................................20
CLOSURE .............................................................................................................. 21

REFERENCES ........................................................................................................ 23

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ........................................................................................... 23

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 LIST OF ANNEXES

Annex-A: Borehole Layout Plan

Annex-B: Borelogs

Annex-C: Cross Section Profile of Soil Stratum

Annex-D: Specific Gravity Test

Annex-E: Natural Moisture Content Test

Annex-F: Unit Weight Test

Annex-G: Grain Size Analysis

Annex-H: Atterberg Limit Test

Annex-J: Consolidated Undrained Test

Annex-K: Consolidation Test

Annex-L: Direct Shear Test

Annex-M: Pile Bearing Capacity Analysis

Annex-N: Shallow Foundation Bearing Capacity Analysis

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2 : (a) Depth VS Shear wave Velocity, Vs (b) Shear Modulus, Gmax ..............................15
Figure 3 : Predicted PGA Values (in cm/sq sec) for Return Period of 2475 years ..........................16

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Summary of Important Tests Conducted In Lab 12

Table 2: SPT and Subsoil Classification 13
Table 3: Summary of Test Results 14
Table 4: Soil Classification in BNBC-1993 Based on Shear Wave Velocity 16
Table 5: Axial Capacity of Single Cast In- Situ Compression Pile 18
Table 6: Axial Capacity of Single Pre Cast Compression Pile (Square) 18
Table 7: Axial Capacity of Single Pre Cast Compression (SPC) Pile 18

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 NOTATIONS

BH Borehole

wn Natural moisture content

v Total overburden stress

 v Effective overburden stress

γb Bulk density

PI or Ip Plasticity index

Fc Fines content (% passing sieve # 200)

D50 Mean grain size

Vs Shear wave velocity

emin Minimum void ratio

g Gravity acceleration

Hz Frequency

N Field SPT N-value

(N1)60 Corrected N-value for 60 % energy

G Shear modulus

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 CERTIFICATION BY PE

This is to certify that the subsoil investigation report

comprising required field and laboratory data, tests and results
therein was carried out by MIST Geotech Lab (TERZAGHI LAB)
under the supervision of undersigned Professional Engineer(PE).
The accuracy of presented data was verified according to the
provisions of code of practices and standards as well as to the
ability of best judgment by the PE.

It is further certified that the undersigned PE has appropriate

qualification and experience also familiar with the purpose of the
investigation for which the Sub soil investigation report is prepared
in response to the reference letter A.

The total number of pages in this report is _______

Mohiuddin Ahmed, PEng

Date_____________
Lieutenant Colonel
Professional Engineer(PEng) Registration
no.01/0225 M/25867
Geotechnical Engineer
CATS-MIST (CE)
 SUBSOIL INVESTIGATION REPORT
Plot 7, Road 9, Block-A, Sarkar Bari, Mirpur DOHS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. Background. This report summarizes the results of subsoil investigation of the
selected site where Three (03) boreholes were drilled according to the standard practice
ASTM D1586 followed by sampling and required geotechnical testing, such as index and
strength properties in the laboratory. The investigation result will enable the designer to
select appropriate types of foundation for the proposed constructions.
2. Subsoil Characteristics. Subsoil investigation data obtained from the site
presented in the following table reflects general subsoil characteristic of the site.

Ser Depth (m) Soil Type SPT Remark

Red Very Stiff to Stiff Clayey Silt. Suitable for
1 0 to 8 Clayey Silt 8 to 16
shallow foundation

2 8 to 20 Silty Sand 8 to 37 Medium Dense to Dense Silty Sand

Grey to Brown Very Stiff to Stiff Clayey Silt and
Clayey Silt/ 32 to
3 20 to 36 Brown Dense Silty Sand. Suitable for supporting
Dense Sand 50 tips of deep foundations.
3. Dynamic Properties. Using SPT correlations dynamic soil properties such as shear
wave velocity and small strain shear modulus were calculated. According to the BNBC
classification of soil based on shear wave velocity, the site soil is roughly characterized as
S3 with a soil factor of 1.5.
4. Bearing Capacity of Foundation. The site is commonly appropriate for building
both shallow and deep foundation though many other options may be chosen by the
designer. The bearing capacity of few pile foundations as shown below may be taken as
guideline. However at shallow foundation’s bearing capacity is also appended in Annex.
(i) Axial capacity of 20m (460mm dia) cast in situ pile in compression is 750kN.
(FS=2.5) (details in Annex- M).
(ii) Axial capacity of 20m (12inch X 12inch) pre-cast pile in compression is 850kN
(FS=2) (details in Annex- M).
(ii) Alternatively, 450mm dia SPC driven pile may also be used.

5. Conclusion. Geotechnical investigation of the site presented herein will allow

foundation designer to select shallow or deep foundation for the proposed construction.
However, choice of shallow, deep or any other suitable type of foundation will finally
depend on the project economics, super-structural requirements and above all technical
judgment of project geotechnical engineer or foundation designer.

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 SUBSOIL INVESTIGATION REPORT
Plot 7, Road 9, Block A
Sarkar Bari, Mirpur DOHS

Introduction

1. Subsoil investigation program for a proposed construction of residential building at

Plot No - 07, Road No - 9, Block A, Sarkar Bari, Mirpur D.O.H.S. was carried out on 1st
Dec to 4th Dec 2020 according to the number and location required by the project on ground
by ‘Dhaka Soil’ under direct supervision of CATS-MIST(CE). On completion of field work,
all laboratory tests were conducted at MIST Geotech lab known as Terzaghi Lab.

2. This geotechnical report summarizes the results of the site investigations, in-situ and
laboratory testing carried out for the project. The tests and terminologies used in this report
follow relevant ASTM and BS standards. The site investigations generally follow accepted
practices for geotechnical engineering. The format and contents are guided by the project’s
specific needs and economics.

3. Presented herein are the results of the factual findings concerning the works carried
out such as subsoil and groundwater condition from 03 (three) bore holes (BH) drilled by
means of wash boring technique and in-situ Standard Penetration Test (SPT) in accordance
with agreed scope of works.

Objectives and Scope of Works

4. The purpose of this sub-soil investigation program is to provide adequate information

on sub-surface and surface conditions for the foundations and other sub-structures for the
proposed project, leading to their economical and safe designs. However, the subsoil
characteristics given here are mostly based on undrained properties. Field SPT N values are
presented without any correction.

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5. In order to accomplish the objectives, the following scopes of works were identified:
a. Drilling of 03 (three) bore holes at proposed development site.
b. In-situ tests such as Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) in the bore holes(BHs).
c. Collection of adequate numbers of disturbed and undisturbed samples from all
BHs.
d. Preparation of geotechnical logs.
e. Engineering classification of soil.
f. Provide factual subsoil investigation data based on physical and mechanical tests,
theoretical assumptions and calculations.

Soil Investigation Methodology

6. The subsoil investigation consisted of exploratory rotary bore hole drilling and In-
situ test (Standard Penetration Test, SPT). ASTM’s standard method of testing was followed
for exploratory drilling and ASTM as well as BS methods were followed for field and
laboratory testing.

Exploratory Drilling and Field Tests

7. Following process of exploratory drilling samplings were followed:

a. Drilling was executed by wash boring. The casing pipe was of 75 mm size
that was sufficient to the boring depth and undisturbed soil sampling.

b. Intervals of SPT was 1.5 m except in undisturbed sampling depth.

c. Undisturbed soil sampling was carried out in accordance with ASTM D 1587.

d. Undisturbed sampling location, depth and number of samples are according to

availability and possibility of collection of samples.

e. Exploratory drilling was continued till confirming two consecutive SPT N-

values greater than 50.

f. Depth of water in boreholes were measured at site after 24 hours of drilling.

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Laboratory Tests

8. After subsoil investigation program in the field collected disturbed and undisturbed
soil samples were tested in the MIST Geotech lab, known an TERZAGHI LAB. Details of
test results are appended separately in the annexes at the end of this report. Summary of
important lab tests conducted in lab is presented in Table-1.

Table 1: Summary of Important Tests Conducted In Lab

Detail
Serial Name of Test Standard
Report
1 Specific Gravity ASTM D854 Annex-D

2 Moisture Content ASTM D 2216-19 Annex-E

3 Unit Weight ASTM D 7263 - 09 Annex-F

4 Grain Size Analysis ASTM D 6913 -17 Annex-G

5 Atterberg Limits ASTM D 4318 - 17 Annex-H

6 Consolidated Undrained BS 1377 : Part 8 : 1990 Clause 4,5,6,7 Annex-J

7 Consolidation BS 1377: Part 5 : 1990 : Clause 3 Annex-K

8 Direct Shear BS 1377 Part 7 : 1990 Clause 4 Annex-L

SPT and Sub Soil Properties

9. The subsoil investigation program consists of collection of disturbed (D) and

undisturbed (UD) samples for various laboratory tests, locating ground water table,
conducting SPTs and determining in situ undrained strength of collected soils. The SPT, soil
classification, basic strength and index properties are presented in Table-2. Geologic fence
diagram (generated by GeoGraphics-2014 software) of the plot showing soil horizons (layer
parallel to the soil surface) is shown in Figure-2.

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 Table 2: SPT and Subsoil Classification

Depth (m) SPT Range USCS Basic soil Properties

0 to 8 5 to 27 ML Wn=22.7- 26.9% , LL= 40-47%, PI=11-15%, Cc=0.056-0.080

8 to 14 8 to 18 MS Gs=2.62-2.67, Fc(#200 passing) = 52%

14 to 20 16 to 30 SM Gs=2.63-2.72, Fc(#200 passing)= 36% , φ= 35.12deg

21 to 34 10 to 37 ML Fc(#200 passing)= 74% , LL= 37-45%, PI= 12-15%

34 to 36 50 SM Gs=2.60, φ=32.15deg

Figure 1 : Geologic Fence Diagram of the Plot (Facing North)

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Laboratory Tests Results

10. For foundation design required tests of collected field samples were carried out in the
lab. Details of lab tests are presented in Annexes. A summary of the results obtained from
the lab test is presented in the Table-3 below. Lab tests were conducted following provisions
of standard code of practices such as BNBC, AASHTO and ASTM. Index and strength
properties of the soil samples collected from all BHs were tested. Samples were collected
from field with proper care and supervisions. Mostly undrained tests were conducted in the
laboratory since those were adequate for the design of common foundations. Disturbed and
undisturbed samples were extracted from the ground following standard codes and practices.
In absence of test results for any depth of a bore hole standard correlation may be followed
based on soil characterization presented in this report. No dynamic tests of soil samples were
conducted as that was beyond the scope of this report.

Table 3: Summary of Test Results

Angle of
Fines
Shear Internal
Specific Unit Moisture Liquid Plasticity (% )
Borehole Sample Resistance Compression Angle of
Depth (m) USCS Gravity Weight Content Limit Index (0.075-
No. ID (degree) Index,Cc Friction
(Gs) (kN/m3) (% ) (% ) (% ) <0.001
(from CU (degree)
mm)
Test)
3m D-2 ML 22.7
6m D-4 ML 40 11
7.5m D-5 ML 26.9
13.5m D-9 MS 2.67 52
1 16.5m D-11 SM 2.72
24m D-16 ML 37 12
33m D-22 ML 74
34.5m D-23 SM 32.15
36m D-24 SM 2.6
2.1-2.6m UD-1 ML 19.97 26.5 0.08
6m D-4 ML 26.8 47 15
2 13.5m D-9 MS 2.62
15m D-10 SM 2.63 36
28.5 D-18 ML 40 13
2.1-2.6m UD-1 ML 19.64 21.2
3.7-4.1m UD-2 ML 0.056
4.5m D-3 ML 44 12
7.5m D-5 MS 27.4
9m D-6 MS 2.65
3
12m D-8 MS 2.63
16.5m D-11 SM 35.12
24m D-16 ML 21.3
31.5m D-21 ML 45 13
33m D-22 ML 44 15

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Dynamic Soil Properties

Shear wave Velocity(Vs) and Small Strain Shear Modulus(Gmax)

11. Limited dynamic soil properties like shear wave Velocity (Vs) and Small Strain
Shear Modulus (Gmax) correlated from field SPT N values are presented in Figure-3(a) and
(b) respectively.

Depth vs Shear Velocity Depth vs Shear Modulus

Shear Velocity. Vs (m/s) Shear Modulus. Gmax (MPa)

0 100 200 300 400 0 50 100 150 200 250 300
0 0

5 5

10 10 BH - 01

BH - 02
Depth, (m)

15 15
Depth, (m)

BH - 03
20 20

25 25
BH - 01
30 BH - 02 30

BH - 03
35 35

40 40

Figure 2 : (a) Depth VS Shear wave Velocity, Vs (b) Shear Modulus, Gmax

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Soil Classification Based on Shear Wave Velocity

12. Bangladesh National Building Code 1993 provides following classification of soil
with associated soil factor based on Shear Wave Velocity (Vs) and site soil characterization
as shown in Table-4 which is essential for foundation design. Based on Table-4 the site soil
may roughly be characterizes as S3.

Table 4: Soil Classification in BNBC-1993 Based on Shear Wave Velocity

Soil Soil
Site Soil Characteristics
Classification Factor
Rock-like material characterized by a Shear wave
S1 velocity >762m/sec, or 1.0
Stiff or dense soil conditions where soil depth <61m
Soil profile with dense or stiff soil condition, where soil
S2 1.2
depth >61m
Soil profile 21m or more in depth and containing more
S3 than 6m of soft to medium stiff clay but not more than 1.5
12m of soft clay
Soil profile containing more than 12m of soft clay
S4 2.0
characterized by shear wave velocity <152m/s

13. Figure below shows results of PSHA (Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment)
studies for a return period of 2475 years for seismic source zone model no.2 and using the
attenuation law of Abrahamson and Silva (1997). It is observed that the maximum PGA
value is in the north-east (Sylhet/Mymensingh) amounting to 0.39g, while the PGA (Peak
Ground Acceleration) value in the port city of Chittagong in the south-east is 0.29g, the PGA
value in the capital city of Dhaka in the centre is around 0.19g. These PGA values are for
rock or firm soil and does not include local site effect, (Tahmeed et. al., 2012). Using Figure-
3, dynamic design of foundation may be ensured and seismic performance may be analyzed.

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 Figure 3 : Predicted PGA Values (in cm/sq sec) for Return Period of 2475 years

Bearing Capacity Analysis Summary

14. After determining required geotechnical properties of subsoil, bearing capacities of

shallow and deep (pile) foundations were calculated and presented here subsequently.
Considering the condition of the soil profile at the site, bearing capacity calculations were
done for bored cast in situ pile and driven (precast) piles. A computational chart is attached
in Annex M. The expected load carrying capacity (in compression) of a single bored cast in-
situ pile and driven (precast) pile for variable diameters and dimensions are as shown in
Table 5, 6 respectively. However, this should be confirmed by appropriate pile load tests.

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 Table 5: Axial Capacity of Single Cast In- Situ Compression Pile
Length Load Capacity (kN); FS = 2.5

Diameter
460 mm (18'') 508 mm (20'') 610 mm (24'')

20.0 m 750 800 1000

Table 6: Axial Capacity of Single Pre Cast Compression Pile (Square)

Length Load Capacity (kN); FS = 2.0

Dimension
12''X 12'' 16''X 16'' 18''X 18''

20.0 m 850 1350 1600

15. In the proposed construction site Spun Prestressed Concrete (SPC) piling system may
also be adopted. SPC piling system, a non-traditional practice in the context of Bangladesh
may be a suitable option in reclaimed land where the soil is susceptible to liquefaction. A
general specification of SPC pile is shown in table below.

Table 7: Axial Capacity of Single Pre Cast Compression (SPC) Pile

Ser Compressive Elastic Area Size Wall Axial Remarks
Stress, f’c Modulus, (mm2) (mm) Thickness Capacity
(MPa) E (MPa) (mm) (kN)

Length : As
1 50 32881 117495 450 110 1850
required

Conclusion and Recommendations

16. The theories on the ultimate bearing capacity presented in this report are based on
idealized conditions of soil profiles assuming the soil to be homogeneous and isotropic. This
in general may not always represent the appropriate field conditions. Thus, sound
experiences and judgments are always necessary in utilizing proper soil parameters for better

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calculation of the ultimate load bearing capacity of the foundation. The designer would
finally select any other alternative foundation type, depth, size of the foundation as well as
the bearing capacity of the foundation in the light of the information presented in this
report.

17. On the basis of subsoil investigation coupled with field and lab tests and aided by
evaluation of bearing capacity for deep foundation in this soil, CATS-MIST(CE)
recommends followings:

a. Cast-in-situ pile foundation may be adopted with a minimum diameter of

18inch and a length of 20.0 m below the EGL that is expected to carry maximum 750
kN per pile in compression. However, alternative dimensions might be adopted
depending on the variable column loads obtained from the super structure. But it is
highly recommended to confirm the pile bearing capacity by field load tests.

b. Precast pile foundation may be adopted with a minimum dimension of 12x12

inch and a length of 20.0 m below the EGL that is expected to carry maximum 850
kN per pile in compression. However, alternative dimensions might be adopted
depending on the variable column loads obtained from the super structure. But it is
also highly recommended to confirm the pile bearing capacity by field load tests.

c. Spun Prestressed Concrete (SPC) pile of minimum 450mm diameter may also
be accepted as specified in Table-7, if project economy, technical support and site
suitability are favorable.

d. Shallow foundation at 2m to 3m depth with B/L=1 (2mx2m) is capable of

bearing an ultimate capacity of 480kPa to 500kPa with tolerable settlement
remaining within 19 to 20mm (undrained analysis with water table within 2B depth).

e. Other alternatives such as reinforced mat foundation or piled raft may also be
taken into account keeping the settlement within tolerable limit. However, these
options are non-regular in nature and require separate design considerations.
Detailed calculation of it is also beyond the scope of this report.

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Precautions

18. The subsoil conditions/bearing surface should be verified by qualified geotechnical

engineer at founding level to confirm bearing pressures as well as origin and strength of soil
at founding level of the footing. Any existing disturbed native soil/low bearing soil
(loose/soft)/uncontrolled fill should be removed, and replaced with lean concrete or crushed
clean granular or granular fill prior to pour concrete If expansive clay encountered at the
base of footing where shallow foundation is being adopted mitigation measures may include
removal and replacement of the expansive soil from the bottom of foundation with non-
expansive acceptable fill material. Adequate remedial measure shall be provided during
excavation close to existing structure in order to avoid undermining foundation sub-grade of
existing structure.

Other Design Considerations

19. Following design consideration may be noted:

a. There are no visible signs of slope instabilities in the vicinity of the site. It
must be noted that the above should be considered as a guideline and the required
analysis should be carried out by design engineer.

b. It is recommended that under no conditions the shallow/spread footing (if

provided) should be placed on old uncontrolled fill. Loose or disturbed materials
should be removed from the footing excavation prior to placement of concrete. Hand
cleaning may be required to prepare an acceptable bearing surface.

c. If residual soil has high swelling and shrinkage potential (high plasticity clay)
so that foundation must be placed below the zone of moisture content fluctuations
strata. Alternatively, mitigation measures may include removal and replacement of
the expansive soil from the bottom of foundation with non-expansive materials.

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CLOSURE
20. This report has been prepared for the exclusive use of client and their
representatives for specific application to the area described within this report. The
material contained in the report reflects our best judgment in the light of the
information available at the time of the preparation.

21 We trust that this report is self-explanatory. We appreciate the opportunity of

providing this service for you. If you have any questions concerning this report, please
do not hesitate to contact this office.

Respectfully Submitted,
TERZAGHI LAB

Prepared by

Lt Col Mohiuddin Ahmed, Peng

MSc. Engg (Geotech)

Senior Geotechnical Engineer Specialist

Officer In charge (OIC), TERZAGHI LAB

CATS-MIST(CE)

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Annexes:
A. Borehole Layout Plan.
B. Bore Log.
C. Cross Section Profile of Soil Stratum.
D. Specific Gravity Test.
E. Moisture Content Test.
F. Unit Weight Test.
G. Grain Size Analysis
H. Atterberg Limits Test
J. Consolidated Undrained Test
K. Consolidation Test
L. Direct Shear Test
M. Pile Bearing Capacity Analysis
N. Shallow Foundation Bearing Capacity Analysis

Distribution:
External:
Action:
AWT

Internal:
Information:
Director CATS
Lab Copy

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REFERENCES
[1] M. Serajuddin, 1998, Some Geotechnical Studies On Bangladesh Soils: A Summary
Of Papers Between 1957-96, Journal of Civil Engineers, Vol 26, No.2, IEB,1998”

[2] Mohiuddin Ahmed, Mohammad Shariful Islam and Raquib Ahsan, 2012, Dynamic
Stiffness of Laterally Loaded Pile Foundation in Dhaka Soil, Electronic Journal of
Geotechnical Engineering, Vol-17[2012], Bund,P
[3] Islam, Mohammad S., Ahmed, Mohiuddin, Hossain, Md. T. and Nasrin, Marufa, 2010,
“Dynamic Properties of Dhaka Soil Using Microtramor Data,” Proceedings of
Bangladesh Geotechnical Conference, BGC 2010, pp. 329-335
[4] Bangladesh National Building Code-2012, Chapter-3, Soils and Foundation

[5] Ansary, M.A., Noor M.A. and Rashid M.A. (2004). “Site amplification characteristics
of Dhaka city”, Journal of Civil Engineering (IEB), 32 (1) (2004) 1-16.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The TERZAGHI lab acknowledge the contribution of ‘Dhaka Soil’ in performing field work
under supervision of CATS-MIST (CE).

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