DISCUSSION 1 GROUP S2G2TBC 12324

The Burj Khalifa, standing as the tallest skyscraper globally, boasts a

sophisticated and robust structural foundation to support its immense height and weight.
The foundation of the Burj Khalifa is a massive reinforced concrete mat, designed to
evenly distribute the enormous load of the building across the ground. This mat serves as
the base platform upon which the entire structure rests.
The foundation of Burj Khalifa consists of a solid assembly of reinforced
concrete in the form of 3 wings with a thickness of 3.7 million triangles supported by 192
round steel piles or cylindrical supports with a diameter of 1.5 meters x 43 meters in
length buried over 50 m (164 feet). The foundation uses high-density, low-permeability
concrete and an underground cathodic protection system to minimize adverse effects. The
piles in the foundation have a load of 3,000 tons each. The foundation is built by digging
a hole 50 meters wide and up to 50 meters deep. Then, concrete is mixed with steel to
form steel rods.
In addition to the concrete mat, the foundation system includes a network of
reinforced concrete piles. These piles are bored deep into the earth, providing crucial
support and stability for the skyscraper. The piles effectively transfer the structural loads
to the stable layers of soil or rock beneath the surface, preventing excessive settlement or
tilting.

Figure 1.1 Concrete mat

The deep foundation system of the Burj Khalifa is essential for counteracting
various forces that could impact the structure. Given its unprecedented height, the
building is subjected to substantial wind loads, and the foundation is designed to resist
these forces and ensure the stability of the entire structure. Moreover, the foundation is
engineered to withstand potential seismic activity in the region.
 The combination of a reinforced concrete mat and deep concrete piles reflects the
careful consideration given to the geological and structural aspects of the site. This
foundation design is a testament to the engineering prowess required to create and sustain
an architectural marvel like the Burj Khalifa.