GEOTECHNICAL FEASIBILITY STUDY

SITE INVESTGATION

TWO PROPOSED SOLAR PV SITES SITUATED

IN MHLUME, ESWATINI
FOR
ROYAL ESWATINI SUGAR

FINAL REPORT

14 March 2023
Report Ref.: 1281

Prepared for:
ENERGY SYSTEMS PLANNING (PTY) LTD
Parkwood, Johannesburg

GEOTECH
(SWAZILAND) (PTY) LTD
CONSULTING ENGINEERING GEOLOGISTS AND GEOLOGISTS

P.O. Box 1376 Mbabane, Eswatini

Tel and Fax: (+268) 404 6775; cell (+268) 607 5825

E-mail: [email protected]
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
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CONTENTS Page

1 INTRODUCTION ……….................................... 1
1.1 Appointment. ................................................. 1
1.2 Scope of Works . ................................................. 1
1.3 General Methodology. ................................................. 1
1.4 Site Location. ………………………………. 1
1.5 Climate. .................................................. 2
1.6 Limitations of Assessment. .................................................. 3

2 DESKTOP STUDY AND SITE WALKOVER …………………...................... 4

2.1 SOLAR 1 SITE. ……………………………….. 4
2.1.1 Site Geomorphology. ….……………………………. 4
2.1.2 Geology. ……………………………….. 5
2.2 SOLAR 2 SITE. ……………………………….. 6
2.2.1 Site Geomorphology. ….……………………………. 6
2.2.2 Geology. ……………………………….. 7
2.2.3 Other Observations. ……………………………….. 7

3 REVEIW OF EXISTING GEOTECHNICAL REPORTS ……………… 9

4 SOLAR 1 FIELD INVESTIGATION ……………………………….. 10

4.1 Test Pitting. ……………………………….. 10
4.2 Soil profile Encountered. ……………………………….. 11
4.3 Laboratory Soil Classification Testing. ………………………………... 11
4.4 Groundwater. ………………………………... 12

5 SOLAR 2 SITE INVESTIGATION ……………………………….. 13

5.1 Test Pitting. ……………………………….. 13
5.2 Soil profile Encountered. ……………………………….. 14
5.3 Laboratory Soil Classification Testing. ……………………………….. 14
5.4 Groundwater. ……………………………….. 15

6 GEOTECHNCIAL EVALUATIONS OF THE TWO SITES ……………… 16

6.1 Solar Site 1 ……..………………………… 16
6.1.1 Geological and Geotechnical Conditions. ……………………………….. 16
6.1.2 Potential Hazards and Associated Risks. ……………………………….. 17
6.2 Solar Site 2 ……………………………….. 17
6.2.1 Geological and Geotechnical Conditions. ……………………………….. 17
6.2.2 Potential Hazards and Associated Risks. ……………………………….. 18

7 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ………………………. 20

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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1: Google Earth image showing the location of Solar 1 and 2 sites.
Figure 2.1: Google Earth image showing the Solar 1 site.
Figure 2.2: Geological map of the Solar 1 and 2 sites.
Figure 2.3: Google Earth image showing the Solar 2 site.
Figure 2.4: Google Earth image (2014) showing the location of the water delivery canal.
Figure 4.1: Solar 1 site test pit locations and numbering.
Figure 5.1: Solar 2 site test pit locations and numbering.
Figure 6.1: Solar 1 schematic presentation of the soil profiles.

LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1: Geology of the Solar 1 and Solar 2 sites.
Table 3.1: Various classification and geotechnical soil parameters captured from previous reports.
Table 4.1: Solar 1 site test pit co-o-ordinated positions.
Table 4.2: Solar 1 site brief generalised layer descriptions of the soil and rock horizons encountered.
Table 4.3: Solar 1 site summary of the soil horizons encountered and their depths.
Table 4.4: Solar 1 site summary of the soil classification test results.
Table 4.5: Solar 1 site summary of the laboratory soil compaction and CBR test results.
Table 5.1: Solar 2 sire test pit co-o-ordinated positions.
Table 5.2: Solar 2 site brief generalised layer descriptions of the soil and rock horizons encountered.
Table 5.3: Solar 2 site summary of the soil horizons encountered and their depths.
Table 5.4: Solar 2 site summary of the soil classification test results.
Table 5.5: Solar 2 sire summary of the laboratory soil compaction and CBR test results.
Table 6.1: Solar Site 1 potential hazards and associated risks.
Table 6.2: Solar Site 2 potential hazards and associated risks.
Table 7.1: Comparison of the Solar 1 and Solar 2 sites.

LIST OF PLATES
Plate 2.1: Photograph of the water delivery canal looking east.
Plate 2.2: Photograph of the water delivery canal looking west

LIST OF APPENDICIES

Appendix 1: Test pit profile sheets and photographs of the excavated test pits.
Appendix 2: Laboratory soil classification test results.
Appendix 3: Site photographs.
Appendix 4: Schematic presentation of geological and geotechnical soil profiles.

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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Appointment

Royal Eswatini Sugar Corporation (RES) proposes to construct a 10MW solar PV plant at Mhlume
Sugar Mill. They have appointed Energy System Planning (ESP) to undertake consulting services
relating to the Project.

ESP has appointed Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd as a sub-consultant to provide Sub-Consultancy
Services relating to the geotechnical input requirement. The effective date of the Contract being 13
February 2023.

1.2 Scope of Works

The objectives of the geotechnical investigation are to:

• Undertake a comprehensive desk study and site walkover with limited fieldwork and laboratory
testing to evaluate the risks and benefits of both sites.
• To compile a feasibility report on the geotechnical aspects of each site.

1.3 General Methodology

The investigation was divided into the follow broad phases:

• Desk study. To capture and review available geological and geomorphological data to
formulate an initial geotechnical site plan and to identify potential problematic areas and sites
for limited field investigation.
• Field investigation. To undertake an intrusive investigation by the excavation of test pits at key
points identified from the desk study. To determine the prevailing subsoil conditions and soil
profile characteristics by visual inspection and profiling, and to take representative samples for
laboratory soil testing.
• Reporting. To compile a comprehensive factual interpretative report (geotechnical evaluation)
of each solar plant site. The report will contain all information gathered from the desk study
and all data collected from the fieldwork and laboratory testing and any associated photography.

1.4 Site Locations

Two sites were investigated, these being referred to as RES Solar 1 and RES Solar 2. Their general
locations are shown on Figure 1.1.

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Figure 1.1: Google Earth image showing the location of Solar 1 and 2 sites.

1.5 Climate

The sites lie within the Lowveld climatic zone. The climate is characterised by hot summers and mild
dry winters with annual temperatures varying from 17 to 32°C.

Most rainfall occurs from October to April with a mean annual precipitation of about 550mm.

Climate generally determines the mode of weathering. The effect of climate on the weathering process
with respect to soil formation is determined by the climatic N-value defined by Weinert.

The N-value for the site area is approximately 2. A climatic N-value of <5 is associated with humid
warm areas where chemical decomposition is the predominant rock weathering process.

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1.6 Limitations of Assessment

The information contained within this factual report relates to the positions at which the test pits were
excavated, insitu test conducted and to the associated recorded visual observations as they existed at
the time of the investigation.

It has been assumed that the assembled data including the laboratory soil test results are generally
representative of the whole site, and this report has been compiled based on this assumption. However,
soils are rarely homogeneous and conditions at variance with those described in this report may arise.

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2 DESKTOP STUDY AND SITE WALKOVER

2.1 SOLAR 1 SITE

2.1.1 Site Geomorphology

Contours were draw on the site map using ground levels taken from Google Earth imagery see Figure
2.1. The site topography falls to the east at rates varying from about 1 in 35 to 1 in 59.

Figure 2.1: Google Earth image the Solar 1 site.

There are no natural water courses, wetlands or springs on the site, however irrigation associated with
the cultivation of sugar cane is likely to lead to fluctuating subsoil soil moisture conditions. It is
considered to be quite likely that occurrences of a man-made / induced shallow perched water conditions
will exist.

There no significant soil erosion or any landform instability on the site.

There was no evidence of rock outcrop on the site.

The site is covered by sugar cane which is usually an indication of the presence of a rich dark brown to
black clay topsoil.

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2.1.2 Geology

The geological map of the area at a scale of 1:50,000 (sheet 8) produced by the Government of Eswatini
and published in 1980, is reproduced as Figure 2.2.

Figure 2.2: Geological map of the Solar 1 and 2 sites.

The geological map suggests that the Solar 1 site area is likely to be underlain rocks belonging to the
Ecca Group which is part of the Karoo Super Group, and in particular geological unit K2.

The Ecca Group unit K2 comprises of sandstone and claystone with some thin coal horizons. The
sandstones are commonly feldspathic and micaceous.

Dolerite dykes and sills are present throughout the Karoo sedimentary sequence. These have been
mostly intruded post Karoo and belong to a N-S striking swarm. The intensity of the dolerite intrusions
is not well known due to a general lack of rock outcrops.

Table 2.1 summarizes the geology of the Solar 1 site area.

Symbol Typical Rock Type. Super Group Group Sub-Group Formation

Kdo Dolerite Karoo and post Karoo intrusive rock
K2 Sandstone, claystone, coal Karoo Ecca - -
Table 2.1: Geology of the Solar 1 and Solar 2 sites.

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The geological map suggests that the Solar 1 site will be predominately underlain by sandstone and
claystone with subordinate occurrences of dolerite.

2.2 SOLAR 2 SITE

2.2.1 Site Geomorphology

According to the latest 2023 Google Earth imagery, the Solar 2 site is greenfield and is covered by
dense natural lowveld vegetation. However, it was noticed during the site walkover that a water
conveyance canal crosses the site, refer to Section 2.2.3 below.

Contours were draw on the site map using ground levels taken from Google Earth imagery see Figure
2.2. The site topography generally falls the SSE, but transitions to the E along the eastern site boundary
at rates varying of generally about 1 in 40 to 1 in 65. Some areas are steeper with falls of about 1 in 19.

Figure 2.3: Google Earth image of the Solar 2 site.

There are no natural water courses, wetlands or springs on the site.

There no significant soil erosion or any landform instability on the site.

There was no evidence of rock outcrop on the site, although the bush is dense limiting visibility. The
presence of some rock outcrop occurring should not be ruled out.

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2.2.2 Geology

The geological conditions at the Solar 2 site are considered to be very similar to those at the Solar 1
site. Refer to section 2.1.2 above and replace test references to Solar 1 with Solar 2.

2.2.3 Other Observations

During the site walkover it was noticed that there is a water conveyance canal running through the site.
This is not visible on the latest Feb 2023 Google Earth image. Photographs of the canal were taken to
show its general appearance see Plate 2.1 and Plate 2.2 taken from the same location looking east and
west.

Plate 2.1: Photograph of the water delivery canal looking east.

Plate 2.2: Photograph of the water delivery canal looking west.

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The canal has an access road running immediately adjacent to it on its southern side.

The position of the canal is visible on the 2014 Google Earth image, see Figure 2.4.

Figure 2.4: Google Earth image (2014) showing the location of the water delivery canal.

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3 REVEIW OF EXISTING GEOTECHNICAL REPORTS

Existing geotechnical reports in the Mhlume area that have been carried out in the K2 geological domain
suggest that:

• Tractor-Loader-Backhoe (TLB) excavated test pits usually refuse at depths of less than 3.0m.
• Typical soil profiles consist in descending order of occurrence of topsoil, colluvial soil and
various insitu soils derived from the weathering of sandstone, claystone and dolerite.
• Dolerite may be more prevalent than shown on the geological map of the area.

Various classification and geotechnical soil parameters have been captured from the previous reports
and are presented in Table 3.1.

Parameter Colluvial Soil Soil Derived from Soil Derived from Soil Derived from
Claystone Sandstone Dolerite
Clay content (%) Range: 4-45 Range: 6-47 Range: 9-34 Range: 13-40
Average: 26.6 Average: 20.9 Average: 16.1 Average: 29.0
Dry density (kg/m³) Range: 1268-1745 Range: 1447-1684 Range: 1549-1638 Range: 1537-1588
Average: 1556 Average: 1536 Average:1590 Average: 1563
AASHTO A-6 and A-7-5/A-7-6 A-6 and A-7-5/A-7-6 A-6 and A-7-6 A-7-5/A-7-6 and A6
classification
TRH14 classification G10, <G10 and G6 G8, G10 and <G10 G10, G9 and G7 <G10
Potential 50% Low 38% Low 33% Low 31% Low
expansiveness. 50% Medium 53% Medium 67% Medium 63% Medium
9% High 6% High
Void Ratio Range: 0.490-1.136 0.649 No data No data
Average: 0.702
Free swell (%) Range 0.2-5.1 1.4 No data No data
Average: 1.35
Swell pressure (kPa) Range: 12-106 Range: 52-97 38 20
Average: 37.1 Average: 75
Table 3.1: Various classification and geotechnical soil parameters captured from previous reports.

These test results indicate that the K2 soils derived from the weathering of claystone, sandstone and
dolerite can be expected top be problematic. They are generally:

• Silt clay soils of intermediate plasticity.

• Rated as poor to fair subgrade quality (AASHTO and TRH14 classification).
• Of low to medium density with high void ratio in places (especially the colluvial soils).
• Problematic with regards to potential expansiveness (van der Merwe method).
• Problematic with regards to Free Swell and Swell Pressure.

The K2 soils are further expected to be problematic with regards to foundations and special precautions
may be necessary, and with respect to shallow piled foundations which are typically driven to 2 to 3m
depth.

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4 SOLAR 1 FIELD INVESTIGATION

4.1 Test Pitting

The site investigation was conducted on the 24th February 2023.Test pits were excavated using a TLB
(JCB 3DX) hired from Dyson and Lincoln (Pty) Ltd, Siteki. Each test pit was profiled by a professional
engineering geologist in accordance with the methods stipulated by Williams, Jennings & Brink, 1973
and by referring to “Guidelines for Soil and Rock Logging in SA”: AEG – SA Section Geoterminology
Workshop 1990.

A total of six test pits were excavated, these being spread over the site to give a representative coverage,
see Figure 4.1 for test pit locations.

Figure 4.1: Solar 1 site test pit locations and numbering.

The test pit positions were co-ordinated using a hand-held Garmin GPSmap 62SC, see Table 4.1.

Test pit number Y Co-ordinate X-Co-ordinate

RES 1.1 31 Y-083066 X2883173
RES 1.2 31 Y-082788 X2883032
RES 1.3 31 Y-083007 X2883347
RES 1.4 31 Y-083144 X2883544
RES 1.5 31 Y-082540 X2882942
RES 1.6 31 Y-082819 X2883340
Table 4.1: Solar 1 site test pit co-o-ordinated positions.

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4.2 Soil profile Encountered

The soil profile encountered within the test pits was found to be reasonably uniform and in broad terms
comprised, in descending order of occurrence, of the following horizons:

• Fill. Used on the farm roads to increase trafficability around the sugar cane fields.
• Topsoil and colluvial soil.
• Completely weathered soil derived from claystone or completely weathered soil derived from
sandstone.
• Claystone rock or sandstone rock.

Brief descriptions of materials are presented in Table 4.2.

Horizon Primary Description Secondary Description

Fill. Clayey gravel.
Topsoil. Soft to firm, intact, clayey silt. Moist, dark brown with numerous plant roots.
Colluvium. Very stiff, intact, clayey silt. Slightly moist, dark brown with some plant roots.
CW claystone soil. Firm to stiff, intact, clay silt and silt clay Moist, dark olive and dark grey,
occasionally with some gravel.
CW sandstone soil. Firm or medium dense, intact, clayey gravel or Moist, dark reddish orange.
sand silt clay occasionally with some gravel.
Claystone rock. Moderately weathered, very soft to soft rock. Light or dark grey, closely jointed, very fine
grained.
Sandstone rock. Moderate to slightly weathered, soft to hard Dark yellow, dark olive or light brown, very
rock. closely to medium jointed, medium grained.
CW: Completely weathered.
Table 4.2: Solar 1 site brief generalised layer descriptions of the soil and rock horizons encountered.

A summary of the occurrence of the horizons encountered within each test pit is given in Table 4.3.

Test Pit Soil and Rock Horizons and Depths (m) Remarks
Fill. Topsoil Colluvium CW CW Claystone Sandstone
claystone sandstone
RES 1.1 0.0-0.2 0.2-0.6 - - 0.6-1.3 - 1.3 Refusal 1.3m on sandstone.
RES 1.2 0.0-0.2 - 0.2-0.9 0.9-2.8 - 2.8-3.0 - End at 3.0m.
RES 1.3 0.0-0.2 0.2-0.4 - 0.4-1.2 1.2-2.5 - 2.5-3.0 End at 3.0m.
RES 1.4 0.0-0.3 0.3-0.5 - 0.5-1.5 - 1.5-3.0 - End at 3.0m.
RES 1.5 0.0-0.2 0.2-0.4 - - 0.4-1.1 - 1.1 Refusal 1.1m on sandstone.
RES 1.6 0.0-0.2 0.2-0.4 - 0.4-2.2 - 2.2-3.0 - End at 3.0m.
CWGd: Completely weathered granodiorite soil. HWGd: Highly weathered granodiorite soil.
Table 4.3: Solar 1 site summary of the soil horizons encountered and their depths.

See also the test pit location plan and profile sheets Figures A1.1 to A1.7 in Appendix 1.

4.3 Laboratory Soil Classification Testing.

Representative disturbed soil samples were taken from the various soil horizons encountered. This was
limited to a total of 3 samples for this feasibility study. The soil tests conducted on each sample were:

• Grading analysis.
• Hydrometer analysis.
• Atterberg Limit determination.

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• Modified AASHTO compaction (maximum dry density and optimum moisture content).
• California Bearing Capacity (CBR).

A summary of the classification test results is presented in Table 4.4 below.

Soil Composition Atterberg Limits AASTHO/

Sample Depth WPI
Clay Silt Sand Gravel NMC LL PI LS PE Unified
No. (m) GM (%)
% % % % % (%) (%) (%) Class.
Completely weathered claystone
1.2.1 0.9-1.7 10 44 42 4 0.67 21.8 29 14 7.0 11.6 Low A-6/CL
1.2.2 1.7-2.8 37 51 10 2 0.14 19.3 37 22 11.3 21.6 Med. A-6/CL
Completely weathered sandstone.
1.3.1 1.2-2.5 24 37 32 7 0.61 13.0 32 17 7.4 14.5 Med. A-6/CL
GM: Grading Modulus. LL: Liquid Limit. PI: Plasticity Index. NMC: Natural Moisture Content WPI: Weighted PI (van der Merwe).
LS: Linear shrinkage. PE: Potential Expansiveness classification according to the van der Merwe method. Med; Medium.

Table 4.4: Solar 1 site summary of the soil classification test results.

A summary of the compaction and CBR test results is presented in Table 4.5 below.

Mod AASTHO Compaction Data CBR at compacted effort

Sample Depth TRH14/COLTO
Mdd MOD Swell
No. (m) OMC (%) 90% 93% 95% Soil Specification
(kg/m³) (%)
Completely weathered claystone
1.2.1 0.9-1.7 1808 12.8 1.02 1.6 1.9 2.1 Unclassified.
1.2.2 1.7-2.8 1916 11.1 2.30 2.2 2.6 2.9 Unclassified.
Completely weathered sandstone.
1.3.1 1.2-2.5 No test.
Mdd: Maximum dry density. OMC: Optimum moisture content.
Table 4.5: Solar 1 site summary of the laboratory soil compaction and CBR test results.

Detailed laboratory results are attached in Figures A2.1 to A2.3 Appendix 2.

4.4 Groundwater

Groundwater was encountered within test pits 1.3 and 1.6. This occurred as sporadic, discrete seepage
zones within the soil profile. These seepage zones occurred between 0.4 to 1.2 and 2.5 to 3.0m in test
Pit 1.3; and between 0.4 to 1.5 and 2.1 to 2.2m in test pit 1.6.

Rock joint surfaces in test pits 1.3 and 1.6 were found to be wet below 2.5m (sandstone) and 2.2 m
depth (claystone) in these test pits respectively.

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5 SOLAR 2 SITE INVESTIGATION

5.1 Test Pitting

The site investigation was conducted on the 24th February 2023.Test pits were excavated using a TLB
(JCB 3DX) hired from Dyson and Lincoln (Pty) Ltd, Siteki. Each test pit was profiled by a professional
engineering geologist in accordance with the methods stipulated by Williams, Jennings & Brink, 1973
and by referring to “Guidelines for Soil and Rock Logging in SA”: AEG – SA Section Geoterminology
Workshop 1990.

A total of six test pits were excavated, these being spread over the site to give a representative coverage,
see Figure 5.1 for test pit locations.

Figure 5.1: Solar 2 site test pit locations and numbering.

The test pit positions were co-ordinated using a hand-held Garmin GPSmap 62SC, see Table 5.1.

Test pit number Y Co-ordinate X-Co-ordinate

RES 2.1 31 Y-079922 X2886785
RES 2.2 31 Y-080284 X2886793
RES 2.3 31 Y-080744 X2886752
RES 2.4 31 Y-080093 X2887142
RES 2.5 31 Y-080640 X2886979
RES 2.6 31 Y-080294 X2887076
Table 5.1: Solar 2 site test pit co-o-ordinated positions.

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5.2 Soil profile Encountered

The soil profile encountered within the test pits was found to be derived from three different parent
rocks, namely sandstone, dolerite and shale, and in broad terms comprised, in descending order of
occurrence, of the following horizons:

• Fill. Used on a farm roads to increase trafficability.

• Topsoil and colluvial soil.
• Completely and highly weathered soil derived from dolerite, sandstone of shale.
• Sandstone or dolerite rock.

Brief descriptions of materials are presented in Table 5.2.

Horizon Primary Description Secondary Description

Fill. Silty sand.
Topsoil. Soft to stiff, intact, silt sand clay, silty clay or Slightly moist to moist, dark brown or dark grey.
sandy clay. Contains numerous plant roots.
CW shale soil. Firm or medium dense, intact, clay silt or silty Slightly moist to moist, dark yellowish orange.
gravel. Contains some plant roots.
CW-HW sandstone Stiff to very stiff or medium dense, intact, sand Slightly moist, dark brown or dark olive. May
soil. silt clay, silty sand or sandy gravel. contain some plant roots at top of layer or some
calcrete nodules.
CW dolerite soil. Firm or medium dense, intact, clayey gravel. Slightly moist to moist, dark reddish orange or
dark brown. Contains some plant roots.
Shale rock. Moderately weathered, soft rock. Light grey, closely jointed, fine grained,
laminated.
Sandstone rock. Slightly weathered, medium hard rock. Dark red or light brown, closely jointed, medium
grained.
Dolerite rock. Slightly weathered, hard rock. Dusky blue, closely jointed, medium grained.
CW: Completely weathered. HW: Highly weathered.
Table 5.2: Solar 2 site brief generalised layer descriptions of the soil and rock horizons encountered.

A summary of the occurrence of the horizons encountered within each test pit is given in Table 5.3.

Test Pit Soil and Rock Horizons and Depths (m) Remarks
Fill. Topsoil CW CW -HW CW Shale Sand- Dolerite
Shale Sandstone dolerite stone
RES 2.1 - 0.0-0.4 0.4-2.4 - - 2.4-3.0 - - End at 3.0m.
RES 2.2 - 0.0-0.2 - - 0.2-0.8 - - 0.8-2.3 Refusal 2.3m on dolerite.
RES 2.3 - 0.0-0.4 - - 0.4-1.5 - - 1.5-2.1 Refusal 2.1m on dolerite.
RES 2.4 0.0-0.2 0.2-0.5 - 0.5-3.3 - - - - End at 3.0m.
RES 2.5 - 0.0-0.3 - 0.3-1.5 - - 1.5-2.0 - Refusal 2.0m on sandstone.
RES 2.6 - 0.0-0.3 - 0.3-1.1 - - 1.1-1.3 - Refusal 1.3m on sandstone.
CW: Completely weathered. HW: Highly weathered.
Table 5.3: Solar 2 site summary of the soil horizons encountered and their depths.

See also the test pit location plan and the profile sheets Figures A1.8 to A1.14 in Appendix 1.

5.3 Laboratory Soil Classification Testing.

Representative disturbed soil samples were taken for the various soil horizons encountered. This was
limited to a total of 3 samples for this feasibility study. The soil tests conducted on each sample were:

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• Grading analysis.
• Hydrometer analysis.
• Atterberg Limit determination.
• Modified AASHTO compaction (maximum dry density and optimum moisture content).
• California Bearing Capacity (CBR).

A summary of the classification test results is presented in Table 5.4 below.

Soil Composition Atterberg Limits AASTHO/

Sample Depth WPI
Clay Silt Sand Gravel NMC LL PI LS PE Unified
No. (m) GM (%)
% % % % % (%) (%) (%) Class.
Completely weathered shale.
2.1.1 1.2-2.4 6 20 25 49 1.83 14.2 33 18 8.0 7.2 Low A-2-6/SC
Completely weathered sandstone.
2.4.2 0.7-1.4 4 14 70 12 1.48 10.5 NP Low A-1-b/SP
2.4.1 1.4-3.3 7 43 46 4 0.70 12.7 31 18 8.6 15.1 Low A-6/CL
GM: Grading Modulus. LL: Liquid Limit. PI: Plasticity Index. NMC: Natural Moisture Content WPI: Weighted PI (van der Merwe).
LS: Linear shrinkage. PE: Potential Expansiveness classification according to the van der Merwe method.

Table 5.4: Solar 2 site summary of the soil classification test results.

A summary of the compaction and CBR test results is presented in Table 4.5 below.

Mod AASTHO Compaction Data CBR at compacted effort

Sample Depth TRH14/COLTO
Mdd MOD Swell
No. (m) OMC (%) 90% 93% 95% Soil Specification
(kg/m³) (%)
Completely weathered shale.
2.1.1 1.2-2.4 1953 8.2 1.36 7.6 9.2 10.6 G9/G9
Completely weathered sandstone.
2.4.2 0.7-1.4 No tetst
2.4.1 1.4-3.3 1800 11.2 2.11 2.5 3.1 3.5 Unclassified.
Mdd: Maximum dry density. OMC: Optimum moisture content.
Table 5.5: Solar 2 site summary of the laboratory soil compaction and CBR test results.

Detailed laboratory results are attached in Figures A2.4 to A2.6 Appendix 2.

5.4 Groundwater

Groundwater was not encountered in any of the excavated test pits.

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 15
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
_________________________________________________________________________________
6 GEOTECHNICAL EVALUATIONS OF THE TWO SITES

6.1 Solar Site 1

6.1.1 Geological and Geotechnical Conditions

A summary of the geological and Geotechnical conditions encountered is shown on the schematic
presentation Figure 6.1.

Figure 6.1: Solar 1 schematic presentation of the soil profiles.

The following observations regarding the soil profile encountered are made:

• Soil derived from the weathering of the claystone and sandstone are considered to be potentially
expansive. Historical data suggests that some 50 to 67% of these soils are likely to be of medium
to high potential expansiveness.
• Limited soil testing (3 tests) from the site suggests that the soils are likely to be of A-6 / CL
classification, and be of Low (33% of samples) to Medium (66% of samples) potential
expansiveness.
• Soil derived from the weathering of the claystone and sandstone in terms of subgrade strength
is generally considered to be poor. Historical data suggests that these soils are likely to of
mainly G10 to unclassified classification (TRH14).
• Limited soil testing (2 tests) from the site suggests that the soils are likely to be unclassified in
relation to the TRH14 specification.

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 16
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
_________________________________________________________________________________
• Rock was encountered in all test pits at depths ranging from 1.1 to 2.8m depth. The sandstone
encountered was mainly soft to medium hard rock, while the claystone was very soft to soft
rock.

6.1.2 Potential Hazards and Associated Risks

Appraisal of the site in terms of potential hazards / risks is presented in Table 6.1.

Hazard Risk Comment

Flooding. No. The site is remote from any water courses.
Pooling of Water. No The site falls consistently to the east providing a good runoff
characteristic.
Subgrade and Trafficability. Yes. Subgrade soils tested from the site were, according to the TRH14
specification unclassified.
The soils encountered mainly comprised of fine-grained silt clay and clay
silt. Permeability is expected to be low.
Trafficability is likely to be a problem after rainfall.
Scour. No. The soils are classified as CL and scour potential is therefore considered
low.
Wind Erosion. No. Low erosion potential.
Presence of Made Ground. No. The soil profile over the whole site is naturally occurring, except along
the farm roads where a capping of gravel has been laid.
Slope Failure. No. The project site has low-relief topography. Slope failure is unlikely.
Subsidence. No. Unlikely.
Groundwater. Yes. Groundwater was encountered in two of the test pits at two levels in each.
These perched water tables are likely forming from the irrigation and
subsequent infiltration of water applied to the sugar cane planted on and
around the site.
Collapsible or Compressible Generally The transported colluvial soils are likely to be compressible / collapsing
Soil no. in nature, whereas the soils of the insitu soil profile are unlikely to be so.
Expansive Soils. Yes. The soils encountered are historically known to be expansive. Potential
expansiveness was generally of medium category followed by low
category and a small percentage of soils are of high category.
Potential expansiveness of soil tested from the site varied from Medium
(67% of samples) to Low (33% of samples).
Soil Corrosivity. ? No data.
Ground Resistivity ? No data.
Soil Thermal Conductance / ? No data.
Resistivity,
Rainfall Erosion Potential. ? No data. Probably low.
Foundations. Yes. According to SANS 634:2012 the site category is generally expected to
be 4C: Active soil. Cautions regarding seepage and shallow rock are likely
to apply to some parts of the site.
Short Pile Ramming Yes. Short piles are typically rammed to about 2 to 3m depth. This seems to be
generally possible however, refusal at between 1.1 and 1.3m depth did
occur in two test pits.
Seismicity. No. The seismic hazard map of South Africa (SABS 2011) indicates that the
site has a potential of 0.10g peak ground acceleration. This indicates a
moderate seismic hazard level. A 10% probability exists that this value
will be exceeded within a 50-year period.
Table 6.1: Solar Site 1 potential hazards and associated risks.

6.2 Solar Site 2

6.2.1 Geological and Geotechnical Conditions

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 17
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
_________________________________________________________________________________
A summary of the geological and Geotechnical conditions encountered is shown on the schematic
presentation Figure 6.2.

Figure 6.2: Solar 2 schematic presentation of the soil profiles.

The following observations regarding the soil profile encountered are made:

• Soil derived from the weathering of the claystone (or shale), sandstone and dolerite is
considered to be potentially expansive. Historical data suggests that some 50 to 67% of these
soils are of medium to high potential expansiveness.
• Limited soil testing (3 tests) from the site suggests that the soils are likely to be quite variable
and be of A-6 /CL, A-2-6/SC and A-1-b /SCL classification, and be of Low potential
expansiveness.
• Soil derived from the weathering of the claystone (and shale), sandstone and dolerite in terms
of subgrade strength is generally considered to be poor. Historical data suggests that these soils
are likely to be of mainly G10 to <G10 classification (TRH14).
• Limited soil testing (2 tests) from the site suggests that the soils are likely to vary from G9 to
unclassified in relation to the TRH14 specification.
• Rock was encountered in five of the six test pits test pits at depths ranging from 0.8 to 2.4m
depth. The shale encountered was soft rock, the sandstone was mainly medium hard rock, while
the dolerite was mainly hard rock.
• Excavation of the hard rock dolerite was possible due to it being closely jointed.
• TLB refusal during excavation occurred at depths ranging from 1.3 to 2.8m, while two test pits
were terminated at 3.0 and 3.3m without refusal occurring.

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 18
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
_________________________________________________________________________________

6.2.2 Potential Hazards and Associated Risks

Appraisal of the site in terms of potential hazards / risks is presented in Table 6.2.

Hazard Risk Comment

Flooding. No. At its closest, the Mbuluzi River lies some 60m south of the site southern
edge of the site. Parts of the site may be affected by flooding.
Pooling of Water. No The site falls consistently to the south and east providing a good runoff
characteristic. .
Subgrade and Trafficability. Yes. Subgrade soils tested from the site varied, according to the TRH14
specification, from G9 to unclassified.
The soils encountered mainly comprised of fine-grained silt clay and clay
silt and clayey gravel. Permeability is expected to be low.
Trafficability is likely to be a problem after rainfall.
Scour. No. The soils on the site were classified as CL, SC and SP. Scour potential in
areas of CL and SC soils is considered to be low. Areas underlain by sandy
soils (SP) are likely to be prone to scour.
Wind Erosion. No. Low erosion potential.
Presence of Made Ground. No. The soil profile over the whole site is naturally occurring, except along
the farm roads where a capping of gravel has been laid.
Slope Failure. No. The project site has low-relief topography. Slope failure is unlikely.
Subsidence. No. Unlikely.
Groundwater. Yes. Groundwater was not encountered an any of the test pits. Perched water
tables may well occur in some parts of the site.
Collapsible or Compressible Generally, No colluvial soils were encountered. The insitu soil profile is unlikely to
Soil no. be collapsible or compressible.
Expansive Soils. Yes. The soils encountered are historically known to be expansive. Potential
expansiveness is generally of medium category followed by low category
and a small percentage of soils are of high category.
Potential expansiveness of soil tested from the site was Low.
Soil Corrosivity. ? No data.
Ground Resistivity ? No data.
Soil Thermal Conductance / ? No data.
Resistivity,
Rainfall Erosion Potential. ? No data. Probably low.
Foundations. Yes. According to SANS 634:2012 the site category is generally expected to
be 4C: Active soil. Cautions regarding seepage and shallow rock are likely
to apply to some parts of the site.
Short Pile Ramming Yes. Short piles are typically rammed to about 2 to 3m depth. This seems to be
generally possible however, some areas of shallow rock, especially in the
dolerite areas may necessitate shallow foundations.
Seismicity. No. The seismic hazard map of South Africa (SABS 2011) indicates that the
site has a potential of 0.10g peak ground acceleration. This indicates a
moderate seismic hazard level. A 10% probability exists that this value
will be exceeded within a 50-year period.
Table 6.2: Solar Site 1 potential hazards and associated risks.

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 19
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
_________________________________________________________________________________
7 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

A comparison of the two sites for various parameters based on data collected from this investigation is
presented in Table 7.1.

Parameter Solar Site 1 Solar Site 2

Site orientation. East facing. Mainly south, some areas east facing.
Estimated site steepness. About 1 in 35 to 1 in 59. About 1 in 40 to 1 in 65, some areas 1 in 19.
Flooding. No. Possibly some to the south near the Mbuluzi River.
Pooling of water. No. No.
Trafficability. Likely problem especially when wet. Likely problem especially when wet.
Scour. Unlikely. Generally unlikely.
Wind erosion. Unlikely. Unlikely.
Presence of made ground. No. Only on graveling of farm roads. No. Only on graveling of farm roads.
Slope failure. No evidence. No evidence.
Subsidence. No evidence. No evidence.
Geology. Mainly claystone and sandstone. Mainly sandstone, dolerite and shale and claystone.
Groundwater. Some areas with perched water table. None in the test pits but likely that some will occur.
Collapsible soil. Only possible in the colluvial soil layers. Only possible in the colluvial soil layers.
Compressible soil. No. No.
Expansive soil. Yes. Maximum depth up to about 2.8m. No, but sample size was very small. Some areas of
expansive soil expected.
Soil profile depth. Average 1.90 in range of 1.1 to 2.8m. Average 1.76 in range of 0.8 to at least 3.3m
Soil USC classification. CL CL, SC and SP.
Soil TRH14 classification. Unclassified. G9 to unclassified.
Excavation. Soft through soil profile. No boulders or Soft through soil profile. No boulders or hardpan
hardpan ferricrete encountered. ferricrete encountered.
Shallow foundations. Caution, active soil, perched groundwater Caution, active soil likely with possibly of perched
table in some areas. groundwater table in some areas.
Short Pile ramming Caution some areas of shallow rock. See also Caution some areas of shallow rock. See also shallow
shallow foundations. foundations.
Construction hazards. Dust during construction. Dust during construction.
Mud during and after rainfall. Mud during and after rainfall.
Environmental. Brownfield site under sugar cane cultivation. Mainly greenfield site with lowveld vegetation.
Vegetation has however been removed from a large
swathe of the site where a water conveyance canal is
situated. This effectively divides the site into two parts.
Table 7.1: Comparison of the Solar 1 and Solar 2 sites.

Both the Solar 1 and Solar 2 sites are very similar in terms of geology and geotechnical considerations
based on the parameters presented in Table 7.1.

Solar site 1 is more favourable in terms of site orientation, site steepness and environmental
considerations.

Site 1 appears to be more at risk from the presence of potentially expansive soils, however site 2 is
considerably more variable in terms of the soil profile physical characteristics. Other than this both sites
are remarkably similar.

A significant disadvantage of the Solar 2 site is the presence of the canal and its wide servitude which
splits the site into two elongated sections.

The canal access road running along the south side of the canal and the unvegetated servitude are likely
to present a dust hazard to the solar panels.

Based solely on the observations and data collected in compiling this report, and the objectives of the
report itself, it is concluded that SOLAR SITE 1 be the recommended site.
Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 20
Feasibility Study for the Proposed RES 10MW Solar PV Plant
Shallow Geotechnical Investigation
_________________________________________________________________________________

This report has been prepared by:

R. T. Sawyer BSc. MSc.
Director
Registered Professional Engineering Geologist (AESAP, Eswatini)

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Report Ref: 1163 (September 2019) Page 21
 APPENDIX 1
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEETS AND ASSOCIATED PHOTOGRAPHS
Figure A1.1: Solar 1 site showing test pit locations and numbering.
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.1. TEST PIT No.: RES 1.1
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, clayey gravel. Contains numerous small plant roots.
0.2 Slightly moist, light yellowish orange, gravel roadbed.
Firm, intact, silty sand. Contains numerous small plant roots.
Moist, dark brown, topsoil.

0.6
Medium dense, intact, clayey gravel. Contains occasional small plant roots.
Moist, dark reddish orange mottled dark red,
highly weathered sandstone.
-1

1.3
Refusal on sandstone rock.
Depth (m)

-2

-3

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 1.3m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: Slightly weathered, dark yellow, medium jointed, Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. medium grained, medium hard rock SANDSTONE. Seepage: None.
Hired from: Dyson and Lincoln, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.2-0.6 0.6-1.3 1.3

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 24.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.2
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.1. TEST PIT No.: RES 1.2
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, clayey gravel. Contains numerous small plant roots.
0.2 Slightly moist, light yellowish orange, gravel roadbed.
Very stiff, intact, clayey sand. Contains some small plant roots.
Slightly moist, dark brown, colluvium.

0.9
Firm to stiff, intact, clay silt. Pocket pennetrometer190-220 kPa.
-1
Moist, dark olive, completely weathered claystone.

1.2.1

1.7
Stiff, intact, gravely clayey silt. Gravel comprised of mudstone fragments.
Depth (m)

Moist, light grey mottled dark reddish orange, Pocket penetrometer 260-300kpa
completely weathered claystone.
-2

1.2.2

2.8
Moderately weathered, light grey, closely jointed, Fractures iron stained and clay filled.
3.0 very fine grained, very soft to soft rock, CLAYSTONE.
-3 END. Required depth reached.

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 3.0m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: No refusal. Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. Seepage: None.
Hired from: Dyson and Lincoln, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.2-0.9 0.9-1.7 1.7-2.8 2.8-3.0

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 24.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.3
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.1. TEST PIT No.: RES 1.3
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, clayey gravel. Contains numerous plant roots.
0.2 Slightly moist, light yellowish orange, gravel roadbed.
Soft intact, clayey silt. Contains some plant roots and threads.
0.4 Moist, dark brown, topsoil.
Firm to stiff, intact, clay silt. Contains some discrete pockets of seepage.
Wet, dark olive, completely weathered, claystone.

-1
1.2
Firm, intact, sand silt clay with some gravel.
Wet, dark reddish orange, completely weathered sandstone.
Depth (m)

1.3.1
-2

2.5
Moderately weathered, dark olive, very closely jointed, Joint surfaces oxide stained, joints clay
fine to medium grained, soft rock SANDSTONE. filled and wet.
Some discrete seepage pockets.

3.0
-3
End. Required depth reached.

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 3.0m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: No refusal. Groundwater: Yes.
Condition: Excellent. Seepage: Between 0.4 and 1.2m and 2.5 to 3.0m depth.
Hired from: Dyson and Lincoln, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.2-0.4 0.4-1.2 1.2-2.5 2.5-3.0

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 24.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.4
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.1. TEST PIT No.: RES 1.4
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, clayey gravel. Contains numerous plant roots.
Slightly moist, light yellowish orange, gravel roadbed.
0.3
Soft intact, clayey silt. Contains numerous plant roots.
0.5 Moist, dark brown, topsoil.
Soft, intact, sandy clay silt. Contains some plant roots and threads.
Moist, dark brown, completely weathered claystone.

0.9
Firm, intact, clayey silt.
-1
Moist, dark olive streaked dark grey, completely weathered
claystone.

1.5
Moderately weathered, light grey and dark grey, closely jointed, Joint surfaces oxide stained and clay filled.
very fine grained, very soft to soft rock, CLAYSTONE.
Depth (m)

-2

3.0
-3
End. Required depth reached.

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 3.0m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: No refusal. Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. Seepage: None.
Hired from: Dyson and Lincoln, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.3-0.5 0.5-0.9 0.9-1.5 1.5-3.0

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 24.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.5
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.1. TEST PIT No.: RES 1.5
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, clayey gravel. Contains numerous plant roots.
0.2 Slightly moist, light yellowish orange, gravel roadbed.
Firm, intact, sandy clay silt. Contains some plant roots and threads.
0.4 Moist, dark brown, topsoil.
Firm, intact, clayey silt.
0.6 Moist, dark olive streaked light olive, completely weathered
sandstone.
Firm, intact, slightly sandy silt clay.
Moist, light reddish orange mottled dark olive, completely
weathered sandstone.
-1
1.1
Refusal on sandstone rock.
Depth (m)

-2

-3

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 1.1m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: Slightly weathered, light brown and light yellowish orange, Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. medium jointed, medium to coarse grained, hard rock SANDSTONE. Seepage: None.
Hired from: Dyson and Lincoln, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.2-0.4 0.4-0.6 0.6-1.1 1.1

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 24.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.6
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.1. TEST PIT No.: RES 1.6
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, clayey gravel. Contains numerous plant roots.
0.2 Slightly moist, light yellowish orange, gravel roadbed.
Firm, intact, clayey silt. Contains some plant roots and threads.
0.4 Moist, dark brown, topsoil.
Firm, intact, clayey silt. Contains some small iron nodules and some
Moist, dark olive mottled light yellowish orange, completely discreet seepage zones.
weathered, claystone.

-1

1.5
Stiff, intact, gravelly silty clay. Seepage at base 2.1 to 2.2m depth.
Moist, dark grey blotched dark yellowish orange,
completely weathered claystone.
Depth (m)

-2
2.2
Moderate to slightly weathered, dark grey and olive, Joint surfaces oxide stained and clay filled.
closely jointed, very fine grained, soft rock CLAYSTONE. Some joints wet.

3.0
-3
End. Required depth reached.

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 3.0m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: No refusal. Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. Seepage: Between 0.4 and 1.5m and 2.1 to 2.2m depth.
Hired from: Dyson and Lincoln, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.2-0.4 0.4-1.5 1.5-2.2 2.2-3.0

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 24.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.7
Figure A1.8: Solar 2 site showing test pit locations and numbering.
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.8 TEST PIT No.: RES 2.1
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Soft, intact, clay silt. Contains numerous plant roots.
Moist, dark brown, topsoil.

0.4
Firm, intact, clay silt. Contains some plant roots and threads.
Moist, dark yellowish orange mottled dark olive,
completely weathered shale.

-1
1.2
Medium dense, very closely jointed, silty gravel.
Slightly moist, dark yellowish orange layered light grey,
highly weathered shale.

2.1.1
Depth (m)

-2

2.4
Moderately weathered, light grey laminated dark yellowish Joint surfaces oxide stained and coated
orange and dusky red, closely jointed, fine grained, laminated, with silty clay.
soft rock SHALE.

3.0
-3
End. Required depth reached.

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 3.0m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: No refusal. Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. Seepage: None.
Hired from: PSK plant hire, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.0-0.4 0.4-1.2 1.2-2.4 2.4-3.0

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 23.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 2 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.9
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.8. TEST PIT No.: RES 2.2
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Stiff, cracked, sandy clay. Contains numerous roots.
0.2 Slightly moist, dark brown, topsoil.
Medium dense, very closely jointed, clayey gravel. Contains some plant roots and threads.
Slightly moist, dark brown, highly weathered dolerite.

0.8
Slightly weathered, dusky blue, closely jointed, medium grained, Joint surfaces oxide stained with some
hard rock DOLERITE. clay film on joints and some joint infill.
-1
Depth (m)

-2

2.3
Refusal on dolerite rock.

-3

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 2.3m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: Slightly weathered, dusky blue, closely jointed, medium Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. grained, hard rock dolerite. Seepage: None.
Hired from: PSK plant hire, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.0-0.2 0.2-0.8 0.8-2.3

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 23.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 2 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.10
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.8. TEST PIT No.: RES 2.3
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Soft, intact, silty clay. Contains numerous plant roots and some
Moist, dark brown, topsoil. gravel.

0.4
Firm, intact, clayey gravel. Contains some plant roots.
Moist, dark reddish orange, completely weathered dolerite.

-1

1.5
Slightly weathered, dusky blue, closely jointed, Joint surfaces oxide stained with some
medium grained, hard rock DOLERITE. clay film.
Depth (m)

-2
2.1
Resusal on dolerite rock.

-3

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 2.1m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: Slightly weathered, dusky blue, closely jointed, medium Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. grained, hard rock DOLERITE. Seepage: None.
Hired from: PSK plant hire, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.0-0.4 0.4-1.5 1.5-2.1

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 23.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 1 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.11
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure 1.8. TEST PIT No.: RES 2.4
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Loose, intact, silty sand.
0.2 Slightly moist, dark yellowish orange, roadbed.
Firm, intact, sand silt clay. Contains numerous plant roots.
Moist, dark grey, topsoil.
0.5
Stiff, intact, clayey silty sand. Contains some plant roots.
0.7 Slightly moist, pale blue, completely weathered sandstone.
Stiff, intact, silty sand. Contains some tree roots.
Slightly moist, dark olive, completely weathered sandstone.
-1
2.4.2

1.4
Medium dense, intact, sandy gravel. Contains some irregular calcrete nodules.
Slightly moist, dark yellowish orange, highly weathered
sandstone.
Depth (m)

-2

2.4.1

-3

3.3
End. Required depth reached.

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 3.3m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: No refusal. Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. Seepage: None.
Hired from: PSK plant hire, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.2-0.5 0.5-0.7 0.7-1.4 1.4-3.3

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 23.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 2 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.12
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.8. TEST PIT No.: RES 2.5
Soil Depth
Lith-ology Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0 10 20 sample (m)
0
Stiff, intact, sand silt clay. Contains numerous plant roots.
Slightly moist, dark brown, topsoil.
0.3
Stiff, intact, sand silt clay. Contains some plant roots.
Slightly moist, dark brown, completely weathered, sandstone.

0.7
Stiff, intact, sand silt clay.
Slightly moist, dark olive, completely weathered sandstone.
-1

1.5
Slightly weathered, light brown, closely jointed, medium Joint surfaces oxide stained.
grained, medium hard rock SANDSTONE.
Depth (m)

2.0
-2
Refusal on sandstone rock.

-3

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 2.0m Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: Slightly weathered, light brown, closely jointed, Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. medium grained, medium hard rock SANDSTONE. Seepage: None.
Hired from: PSK plant hire, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.0-0.3 0.3-0.7 0.7-1.5 1.5-2.0

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 23.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 2 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.13
 DCP Penetration (blow/10cm)
Location: See Figure A1.8. TEST PIT No.: RES 2.6
Soil Depth
0 10 20 sample
Lith-ology
(m)
Soil / Rock Description Remarks
0
Stiff, intact, sand silt clay. Contains numerous plant roots.
Slightly moist, dark brown, topsoil.
0.3
Very stiff, intact, clay silt. Contains some plant roots.
Slightly moist, dark yellowish orange, completely weathered
sandstone.

-1
1.1
Slightly weathered, dark red, closely jointed, laminated to thinly
1.3 bedded, medium grained, medium hard rock SANDSTONE.
Refusal on sandstone rock.
Depth (m)

-2

-3

-4

Machine: JCB 3DX super. Final test pit depth: End at 1.3m. Test pit stability: Side walls stable during excavation.
Bucket width: 0.6 m. Refusal on: Slightly weathered, dark red, closely jointed, laminated to Groundwater: No.
Condition: Excellent. thinly bedded, medium grained, medium hard rock SANDSTONE. Seepage: None.
Hired from: PSK plant hire, Siteki DCP testing from: Not undertaken. Inflow: None

0.0-0.3 0.3-1.1 1.1-1.3

Geotech (Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Job No.: 1281

P.O.Box 1376
TEST PIT PROFILE SHEET Excavation date: 23.02.23
Mbabane GEOTECHNICAL INVESTIGATION Profiler: R.T.Sawyer BSc, MSc
Swaziland RES SOLAR 2 SITE
FIGURE No.: A1.14
 APPENDIX 2
LABORATORY SOIL CLASSIFICATION TEST RESULTS
 P.O. Box 1376, Mbabane, Swaziland Cell: +268 76075825
Geotech ( Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Landline: +268 24046775 e mail: [email protected]

FOUNDATION INDICATOR AND CBR TEST RESULTS TEST PIT No.: RES 1.2
Client: Energy System Planning (Pty) Ltd. Sample No.: 1.2.1 Date: March 2023
Project: Royal Eswatini Sugar - Solar 1 and 2 Sites. Sample Depth: 0.9-1.7m. Job No.: 1281

SIEVE ANALYSIS GRADING ANALYSIS

100

Sieve size Percent

mm passing
80
75

Percentage Passing
53
37.5 60

26.5
19 40
13.2 100
4.75 98
20
2.00 96
0.425 83
0.075 54 0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Particle Size (mm)

HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ATTERBERG LIMITS & OTHER PROPERTIES

Sieve size Percent SOIL MORTAR ANALYSIS Liquid Limit (LL). 29

mm passing Percentage of Sample <2.00mm 96 Plasticity Index (PI). 14
0.075 63 Coarse Sand 2.00 - 0.425mm 14 Linear Shrinkage (%). 7
0.05 55 Med & Fine Sand 0.425 - 0.075mm 30 Grading Modulus. 0.67
0.005 20 Silt 0.002 - 0.075mm 46 Natural Moisture Content (%). 21.8
0.002 10 Clay <0.002mm 10 Weighted Plasticity Index. 11.6
AASTHO Classification. A-6
Sandy silt with some clay. Unified Soil Classification. CL

SOIL ACTIVITY CHART PLASTICITY CHART

60 60
Very High CV
50 50
PI of Whole Sample

CH
40 40
Plasticity Index

High
MV

30 Medium 30 CI
MH

20 20
CL MI
10 Low
10
S
ML
0 0
0 20 40 60 80 0 20 40 60 80

Clay Content (%) Liquid Limit

CBR DETERMINATION 100

MDD (kg/m³) 1808

OMC (%) 12.8
CBR %

MOD AASTHO % 90 93 95 97 98 100 10

CBR 1.6 1.9 2.1 2.3 2.5 2.6

Percentage swell at: MOD NRB Proctor

1.02 1.10 0.88 1
90 92 94 96 98 100
% Compaction
THR14 Specification: Unclassified.
COLTO Specification: Unclassified. Figure: A2.1
 P.O. Box 1376, Mbabane, Swaziland Cell: +268 76075825
Geotech ( Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Landline: +268 24046775 e mail: [email protected]

FOUNDATION INDICATOR AND CBR TEST RESULTS TEST PIT No.: RES 1.2
Client: Energy System Planning (Pty) Ltd. Sample No.: 1.2.2 Date: March 2023
Project: Royal Eswatini Sugar - Solar 1 and 2 Sites. Sample Depth: 1.7-2.8m. Job No.: 1281

SIEVE ANALYSIS GRADING ANALYSIS

100

Sieve size Percent

mm passing
80
75

Percentage Passing
53
37.5 60

26.5
19 40
13.2
4.75
20
2.00 100
0.425 98
0.075 88 0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Particle Size (mm)

HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ATTERBERG LIMITS & OTHER PROPERTIES

Sieve size Percent SOIL MORTAR ANALYSIS Liquid Limit (LL). 37

mm passing Percentage of Sample <2.00mm 100 Plasticity Index (PI). 22
0.075 78 Coarse Sand 2.00 - 0.425mm 2 Linear Shrinkage (%). 11.3
0.05 75 Med & Fine Sand 0.425 - 0.075mm 10 Grading Modulus. 0.14
0.005 49 Silt 0.002 - 0.075mm 51 Natural Moisture Content (%). 19.3
0.002 37 Clay <0.002mm 37 Weighted plasticity index. 21.6
AASTHO Classification. A-6
Clayey silt. Unified Soil Classification. CL

SOIL ACTIVITY CHART PLASTICITY CHART

60 60
Very High CV
50 50
PI of Whole Sample

CH
40 40
Plasticity Index

High
MV

30 Medium 30 CI
MH

20 20
CL MI

10 Low
10
S ML

0 0
0 20 40 60 80 0 20 40 60 80

Clay Content (%) Liquid Limit

CBR DETERMINATION 100

MDD (kg/m³) 1916

OMC (%) 11.1
CBR %

MOD AASTHO % 90 93 95 97 98 100 10

CBR 2.2 2.6 2.9 3.2 3.4 3.8

Percentage swell at: MOD NRB Proctor

2.30 2.00 1.84 1
90 92 94 96 98 100
% Compaction
TRH14 Classification. Unclassified.
COLTO Classification. Unclassified. Figure: A2.2
 P.O. Box 1376, Mbabane, Swaziland Cell: +268 76075825
Geotech ( Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Landline: +268 24046775 e mail: [email protected]

FOUNDATION INDICATOR AND CBR TEST RESULTS TEST PIT No.: RES 1.3
Client: Energy System Planning (Pty) Ltd. Sample No.: 1.3.1 Date: March 2023
Project: Royal Eswatini Sugar - Solar 1 and 2 Sites. Sample Depth: 1.2-2.5m. Job No.: 1281

SIEVE ANALYSIS GRADING ANALYSIS

100

Sieve size Percent

mm passing
80
75

Percentage Passing
53
37.5 60

26.5
19 40
13.2 100
4.75 98
20
2.00 93
0.425 85
0.075 61 0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Particle Size (mm)

HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ATTERBERG LIMITS & OTHER PROPERTIES

Sieve size Percent SOIL MORTAR ANALYSIS Liquid Limit (LL). 32

mm passing Percentage of Sample <2.00mm 93 Plasticity Index (PI). 17
0.075 54 Coarse Sand 2.00 - 0.425mm 9 Linear Shrinkage (%). 7.4
0.05 44 Med & Fine Sand 0.425 - 0.075mm 26 Grading Modulus. 0.61
0.005 27 Silt 0.002 - 0.075mm 40 Natural Moisture Content (%). 13.0
0.002 24 Clay <0.002mm 26 Weighted Plasticity Index. 14.5
AASTHO Classification. A-6
Sand silt clay (loam). Unified Soil Clssification. CL

SOIL ACTIVITY CHART PLASTICITY CHART

60 60
Very High CV
50 50
PI of Whole Sample

CH
40 40
Plasticity Index

High
MV

30 Medium 30 CI
MH

20 20
CL MI

10 Low
10
S ML

0 0
0 20 40 60 80 0 20 40 60 80

Clay Content (%) Liquid Limit

CBR DETERMINATION 100

MDD (kg/m³)
OMC (%)
CBR %

MOD AASTHO % 90 93 95 97 98 100 10

CBR

Percentage swell at: MOD NRB Proctor

1
90 92 94 96 98 100
% Compaction
THR14 Specification: No data.
COLTO Specification: No data.. Figure: A2.3
 P.O. Box 1376, Mbabane, Swaziland Cell: +268 76075825
Geotech ( Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Landline: +268 24046775 e mail: [email protected]

FOUNDATION INDICATOR AND CBR TEST RESULTS TEST PIT No.: RES 2.1
Client: Energy System Planning (Pty) Ltd. Sample No.: 2.1.1 Date: March 2023
Project: Royal Eswatini Sugar - Solar 1 and 2 Sites. Sample Depth: 1.2-2.4m Job No.: 1281

SIEVE ANALYSIS GRADING ANALYSIS

100

Sieve size Percent

mm passing
80
75

Percentage Passing
53
37.5 100 60

26.5 93
19 74 40
13.2 71
4.75 59
20
2.00 51
0.425 40
0.075 26 0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Particle Size (mm)

HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ATTERBERG LIMITS & OTHER PROPERTIES

Sieve size Percent SOIL MORTAR ANALYSIS Liquid Limit (LL). 33

mm passing Percentage of Sample <2.00mm 51 Plasticity Index (PI). 18
0.075 23 Coarse Sand 2.00 - 0.425mm 22 Linear Shrinkage (%). 8
0.05 16 Med & Fine Sand 0.425 - 0.075mm 27 Grading Modulus. 1.83
0.005 7 Silt 0.002 - 0.075mm 39 Natural Moisture Content (%). 14.2
0.002 6 Clay <0.002mm 12 Weighted Plasticity Index. 7.2
AASTHO Classification. A-2-6
Silty sand. Unified Soil Classification. SC

SOIL ACTIVITY CHART PLASTICITY CHART

60 60
Very High CV
50 50
PI of Whole Sample

CH
40 40
Plasticity Index

High
MV

30 Medium 30 CI
MH

20 20
CL MI

10 Low
10
S ML

0 0
0 20 40 60 80 0 20 40 60 80

Clay Content (%) Liquid Limit

CBR DETERMINATION 100

MDD (kg/m³) 1953

OMC (%) 8.2
CBR %

MOD AASTHO % 90 93 95 97 98 100 10

CBR 7.6 9.2 10.6 11.7 12.3 13.5

Percentage swell at: MOD NRB Proctor

1.36 1.11 0.88 1
90 92 94 96 98 100
% Compaction
THR14 Specification: G9
COLTO Specification: G9 Figure: A2.4
 P.O. Box 1376, Mbabane, Swaziland Cell: +268 76075825
Geotech ( Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Landline: +268 24046775 e mail: [email protected]

FOUNDATION INDICATOR AND CBR TEST RESULTS TEST PIT No.: RES 2.4
Client: Energy System Planning (Pty) Ltd. Sample No.: 2.4.1 Date: March 2023
Project: Royal Eswatini Sugar - Solar 1 and 2 Sites. Sample Depth: 1.4-3.3m Job No.: 1281

SIEVE ANALYSIS GRADING ANALYSIS

100

Sieve size Percent

mm passing
80
75

Percentage Passing
53
37.5 60

26.5
19 100 40
13.2 99
4.75 98
20
2.00 96
0.425 84
0.075 50 0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Particle Size (mm)

HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ATTERBERG LIMITS & OTHER PROPERTIES

Sieve size Percent SOIL MORTAR ANALYSIS Liquid Limit (LL). 31

mm passing Percentage of Sample <2.00mm 96 Plasticity Index (PI). 18
0.075 45 Coarse Sand 2.00 - 0.425mm 13 Linear Shrinkage (%). 8.6
0.05 40 Med & Fine Sand 0.425 - 0.075mm 35 Grading Modulus. 0.70
0.005 10 Silt 0.002 - 0.075mm 45 Natural Moisture Content (%). 12.7
0.002 7 Clay <0.002mm 7 Weighted Plasticity Index. 15.1
AASTHO Classification. A-6
Silty sand with some clay. Unified Soil Classification. CL

SOIL ACTIVITY CHART PLASTICITY CHART

60 60
Very High CV
50 50
PI of Whole Sample

CH
40 40
Plasticity Index

High
MV

30 Medium 30 CI
MH

20 20
CL MI

10 Low
10
S ML

0 0
0 20 40 60 80 0 20 40 60 80

Clay Content (%) Liquid Limit

CBR DETERMINATION 100

MDD (kg/m³) 1800

OMC (%) 11.2
CBR %

MOD AASTHO % 90 93 95 97 98 100 10

CBR 2.5 3.1 3.5 3.9 4.2 4.7

Percentage swell at: MOD NRB Proctor

2.11 1.20 0.88 1
90 92 94 96 98 100
% Compaction
THR14 Specification: Unclassified.
COLTO Specification: Unclassified. Figure: A2.5
 P.O. Box 1376, Mbabane, Swaziland Cell: +268 76075825
Geotech ( Swaziland) (Pty) Ltd Landline: +268 24046775 e mail: [email protected]

FOUNDATION INDICATOR AND CBR TEST RESULTS TEST PIT No.: RES 2.4
Client: Energy System Planning (Pty) Ltd. Sample No.: 2.4.2 Date: March 2023
Project: Royal Eswatini Sugar - Solar 1 and 2 Sites. Sample Depth: 0.7-1.4m Job No.: 1281

SIEVE ANALYSIS GRADING ANALYSIS

100

Sieve size Percent

mm passing
80
75

Percentage Passing
53
37.5 60

26.5
19 40
13.2 100
4.75 96
20
2.00 88
0.425 46
0.075 18 0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 100
Particle Size (mm)

HYDROMETER ANALYSIS ATTERBERG LIMITS & OTHER PROPERTIES

Sieve size Percent SOIL MORTAR ANALYSIS Liquid Limit (LL).

mm passing Percentage of Sample <2.00mm 88 Plasticity Index (PI). NP
0.075 23 Coarse Sand 2.00 - 0.425mm 48 Linear Shrinkage (%).
0.05 17 Med & Fine Sand 0.425 - 0.075mm 32 Grading Modulus. 1.48
0.005 5 Silt 0.002 - 0.075mm 16 Natural Moisture Content (%). 10.5
0.002 4 Clay <0.002mm 5 Weighted Plasticity Index. 0.0
AASTHO Classification. A-1-b
Sand. Unified Soil Classification. SP

SOIL ACTIVITY CHART PLASTICITY CHART

60 60
Very High CV
50 50
PI of Whole Sample

CH
40 40
Plasticity Index

High
MV

30 Medium 30 CI
MH

20 20
CL MI

10 Low
10
S ML

0 0
0 20 40 60 80 0 20 40 60 80

Clay Content (%) Liquid Limit

CBR DETERMINATION 100

MDD (kg/m³)
OMC (%)
CBR %

MOD AASTHO % 90 93 95 97 98 100 10

CBR

Percentage swell at: MOD NRB Proctor

1
90 92 94 96 98 100
% Compaction
THR14 Specification: No data.
COLTO Specification: No data.. Figure: A2.6
 APPENDIX 3
SITE PHOTOGRAPHS
 Plate A3.1: Central site road looking west. Plate A3.2: Central site road looking east from
same location as Plate A3.1.

Plate A3.3: South boundary road looking east.

See Plates 2.1 and 2.2 on page 7 of the report text for photographs of the Solar 2 site area.
 APPENDIX 4
GENERAL PROCEDURES AND DESCRIPTIVE TERMINOLOGY
 TEST PIT PROFILING PROCEEDURES AND GEOTERMINOLOGY

The procedures and methods used in the profiling of test pits generally adhered to the following:

* Jennings et al: "Soil profiling for civil engineering purposes in Southern Africa". Transactions
of the SAICE Jan 1973.
* Geological Society of London: " Working party report. The logging of rock cores for engineering
purposes:. QJEG, V3
* "A guide to core logging for rock engineering": Proceedings of the Symposium for Rock
Engineering, Nov. 1976.
* "Guideline for soil and rock logging in South Africa". 2 nd Impression. A.B.A Brink and
R.M.H. Bruin, Proceedings, Geoterminology Workshop organised by AEG, SAICE and
SAIEG, 1990.

SOIL DESCRIPTIVE TERMS

SOIL TYPE and PARTCLE SIZE MOISTURE CONDITION

SOIL TYPE PARTICLE SIZE (mm) Dry No water detectable.
CLAY <0.002 Slightly Moist Water just detectable.
SILT 0.002-0.06 Moist Water easily detectable.
SAND - fine 0.06-0.2 Very moist Water can be squeezed out.
SAND - medium 0.2-0.6 Wet Generally below the water table.
SAND - coarse 0.6-2.0
GRAVEL - fine 2.0-6 SOIL COLOUR
GRAVEL - medium 6-20 Speckled Very small patches of colour (<2mm).
GRAVEL - coarse 20-60 Mottled Irregular patches of colour (2-6mm).
COBBLES 20-200 Blotched Large irregular patches of colour (6-20mm).
BOULDERS >200 Banded Approximately parallel bands of colour.
Streaked Randomly orientated streaks of colour.
Stained Local colour variations associated with
joint (discontinuity) surfaces

CONSISTENCY OF GRANULAR SOILS

GRAVELS and SANDS TYPICAL DRY
SPT "N" (sat) Generally free draining soils. Cohesionless materials. DENSITY (kg/m³)
<4 Very Loose Crumbles easily when scaped with a geological pick. <1450
4-10 Loose Small resistance to penetration by sharp pick point. 1450-1600
10-30 Medium Dense Considerable resistance to penetration by sharp pick point. 1600-1750
Very high resistance to penetration by sharp pick point.
30-50 Dense 1750-1925
Requires many blows of pick for excavation.
High resistance to repeated blows of geological pick. Requires
>50 Very Dense >1925
power tools for excavation.

CONSISTENCY OF COHESIVE SOILS

SPT "N" (Saturated) SILTS and CLAYS UCS
Sensitive Insensitive and combinations with sand. Generally slow draining soils. (kPa)
<2 <5 Very Soft Pick point easily pushed in 100 mm. Easily moulded by fingers. <50
Pick point pushed in 30-40 mm. Moulded with some finger pressure.
2-4 5-10 Soft 50-125
Easily penetrated by thumb.
Pick point penetrated 0-10 mm. Very difficult to mould. Just indented
5-8 11-25 Firm 125-250
by thumb. Spade just penetrates.
Slight indentation pushing in pick point. Cannot be moulded.
9-15 26-50 Stiff 250-500
Thumb nail penetrates. Excavate with pick.
Slight indentation with blow of pick point. Requires power tools
16-30 51-80 Very Stiff 500-1000
for excavation.

Page A4.i
SOIL STRUCTURE
INTACT No structure present.
FISSURED Presence of discontinuity planes open or closed, stained or unstained.
SLICKENSIDED Very smooth or glossy often stained discontinuity planes.
SHATTERED Presence of open fissures. Soil breaks into gravel sized blocks.
MICRO-SHATTERED Small scale shattering, very closely spaced open fissures. Soil breaks into sand sized crumbs.
RESIDUAL STRUCTURES Relict bedding, lamination, foliation etc.
PINHOLED Voids or pores (<2mm), hand lens may be needed.
HONEYCOMBED Similar to pin-holed but >2mm (specify size).
Matrix: Clasts supported by matrix.
SUPPORTED
Clast: Clasts touching (with or without matrix).

SOIL ORIGIN
TRANSPORTED Alluvium, hill wash, talus, etc.
RESIDUAL Weathered directly from parent rock with no subsequent transportation.
PEDOCRETES Ferricrete, laterite, silcrete, calcrete, etc.

DESCRIPTIONS OF PEDOCRETES
CALCRETE FERRICRETE SILCRETE DESCRIPTION
A soil which exhibits little to no nodule development or massive
cementation, but which contains some pedogenic mineralisation,
Calcareous Ferruginous -
but not sufficient to have indurated the soil significantly, or
affected soil consistencies.
Massive to platy soil which has been indurated by cementation
Calcified Ferruginised Silicified
to at least firm to stiff consistency.
Generally loose silt and fine sand consisting of cemented or
Powder Calcrete Powder Ferricrete -
aggregated particles of nearly pure pedogenic minerals.
Nodular Calcrete Nodular Ferricrete Noduar Silcrete Mixture of gravel sized nodules of cemented particles.
Partly amalgamated (fused) nodular pedocrete representing and
Honeycomb Calcrete Honeycomb Ferricrete Honeycomb Silcrete intergrade between nodular and hardpan variety. It may still contain
loose/soft pockets, but usually requires ripping for excavation.
Indurated and strongly cemented, massive, rock-like material.
Hardpan Calcrete Hardpan Ferricrete Hardpan Silcrete
Consistencies vary, but usually at least medium hard rock.

DEGREE OF CEMENTATION OF PEDOCRETES UCS (MPa)

Some material can be crumbled between the fingers. Disintegrates under
VERY WEAKLY CEMENTED 0.1-0.5
knife blade to a friable state.
Cannot be crumbled between the fingers. Some material can be crumbled
WEAKLY CEMENTED by strong pressure between thumb and hard surface. Disintegrates to a 0.5-2
friable state under light hammer blows.
Material crumbles under firm blows of pick head. Grains can be dislodged
CEMENTED 2-5
with some difficulty by a knife blade.
Firm blows of a sharp pick point on a hand-held specimen causes 1-3mm
STRONGLY CEMENTED 5-10
indentations. Cannot be dislodged by knife blade.
Hand-held specimen can be broken by a single firm blow of hammerhead.
VERY STRONGLY CEMENTED 10-25
Similar appearance to concrete.

Page A4.ii
SIGNIFICANCE OF SOIL COLOUR
Black or dark colours Generally indicates high organic matter content.
Red colours Indicates good drainage and aeration, and results from the presence of iron oxide.
Reflects a moist soil climate. Is believed to be related to the crystalline state and not the amount of
Yellow colours
iron oxide present.
Usually indicates conditions of poor drainage or periodic saturation. The colour is believed to be that
Grey and light colours of the individual uncoated soil particles. Under such conditions the iron oxide has been leached away
or the percentage of silica and lime is high.
Dark grey, pale blue, and
Usually indicates the presence of wetland soils.
pale green colours
Reflects the accumulation of iron and manganese oxide in either poorly drained horizons or in zones
where the water table fluctuates. For example, under wet conditions the clay compound in the soil
Mottling
breaks up but the iron oxide remains and gives rise to red, yellow and brown mottles. Black centres
are usually manganese.

Borland soil field colour chart.

Shepard's soil classification chart.

Page A4.iii
 AASHTO CLASSIFICATION OF SOILS AND SOIL-AGGREGATE MIXTURES
Granular Materials Silt-Clay Materials
General Classification
(35% or less passing 0.075 mm) More that 35% passing 0.075 mm)
A-1 A-2 A-7-5
Group Classification A-3 A-4 A-5 A-6
A-1-a a-1-b A-2-4 A-2-5 A-2-6 A-2-7 A-7-6
Sieve Analysis Percent Passing
2.00 mm 50 max
0.425 mm 30 max 50 max 51 max
0.075 mm 15 max 25 max 10 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 35 max 36 min 36 min 36 min 36 min
Characteristic of Faction Passing
0.425 mm Liquid Limit 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min 40 max 41 min
0.425 mm Plasticity Index 6 max NP 10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min 10 max 10 max 11 min 11 min
Usual Types of Significant Construction Stone fragments, Fine
Silty and clayey gravel sand soils Silty soils Clayey soils
Materials gravel and sand sand
Grading Rating as Sub-grade Excellent to good Fair to poor
Plasticity index of A-7-5 subgroup is equal to of less than LL minus 30.
Plasticity index of A-7-6 subgroup is greater than LL minus 30.

UNIFIED SOIL CLASSIFICATION CHART

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 CLASSIFICATION OF NATURAL MATERIALS FOR PAVEMENT CONSTRUCTION (THR 14)
TRH14 Classification G4 G5 G6 G7 G8 G9 G10
Base Sub-base
Selected layer
Sub-grade
Liquid Limit (maximum). 25 30
Plasticity Index (maximum). 6 10 12 12
Linear shrinkage (%) (maximum). 3 5
Linear shrinkage x % passing 0.425 sieve.
Grading modulus. >1.5 >1.2 >0.75 none none none
Min. CBR (%) at 98% mod. AASTHO density. 80
Min. CBR (%) at 95% mod. AASTHO density. 45
Min. CBR (%) at 93% mod. AASTHO density. 25 15 10 7 3
Max. swell (%) at 100% mod. AASTHO density 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5

GENERAL CLASSIFICATION OF NATURAL MATERIALS FOR PAVEMENT CONSTRUCTION (COLTO))

Other requirements may apply. Refer to the COLTO specification.
TRH14 Classification G4 G5 G6 G7 G8 G9
Liquid Limit (maximum). 25 30
12 12 12 12

GM+10

GM+10

GM+10

GM+10
Plasticity Index (maximum. 6 10
or 3x

or 3x

or 3x

or 3x
Linear shrinkage (%) (maximum). 3 5 5
Grading modulus 2.5-1.5 2.6-1.2 2.7-0.75 2.7-0.75 2.7-0.75
Min. CBR (%) at 98% mod. AASTHO density. 80
Min. CBR (%) at 95% mod. AASTHO density. 45
Min. CBR (%) at 93% mod. AASTHO density. 25 15 10 7
Max. swell (%) at 100% mod. AASTHO density 0.5 1.0 1.5 1.5 1.5

COLLAPSE POTENTIAL
Collapse Potential (%) Severity of Problem
0-1 No Problem.
1-5 Moderate trouble.
5-10 Trouble.
10-20 Severe trouble.
>20 Very severe trouble.
Rough guide by Jennings and Knight (1975).

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 ROCK DESCRIPTIVE TERMS

ROCK TYPE
IGNEOUS: Granite, diorite, gabbro, dolerite, basalt rhyolite etc.
METAMORPHIC: Gneiss, quartzite, schist, slate, amphibolite, marble etc.
SEDIMENTARY: Sandstone, conglomerate, shale, claystone, mudstone, etc.

ROCK WEATHERING
Degree of Extent of Fracture (Joint) Surface Original
Grain Boundary Condition
Weathering Discolouration Condition Characteristics Fabric
UNWEATHERED None Closed to stained Unchanged Preserved Tight

Partial discolouration.
SLIGHTLY <20% of fracture spacing Discoloured may contain
Often unweathered rock Preserved. Tight.
WEATHERED on both sides of fracture. thin filling.
colour.

Partial / complete
MODERATELY 20% of fracture spacing on Discoloured may contain discolouration. Not friable
Preserved. Partial opening.
WEATHERED both sides of fracture. filling. except, poorly cemented
rocks.

Partial separation. Not easily

HIGHLY WEATHERED Throughout. Friable, possible pitted. Mainly preserved. indented with knife. Does not slake
in water.

COMPLETELY Partially
Throughout. Resembles a soil.
WEATHERED preserved. Complete separation. Easily indented
with knife. Slakes in water.

ROCK HARDNESS
Hardness Description UCS (MPa)
Material crumbles under firm blows of pick point. Can be peeled with a knife. Too hard to cut
VERY SOFT ROCK 1-3
triaxial sample by hand.

SOFT ROCK Firm blows with pick point produce 2 to 4mm indentations. Can just be scraped with a knife. 3-10

MEDIUM HARD ROCK Firm blows of pick head will break hand held specimen. Cannot be scraped or peeled with a knife. 10-25

HARD ROCK 25-70

Breaks with difficulty, rings when struck. Point load or laboratory test results necessary to
VERY HARD ROCK 70-200
distinguish between categories. In the absence any of the above tests, it must be accepted that any
EXTREMELY HARD ROCK rock described as "hard" or "very hard" can and may include rock of greater hardness. >200

GRAIN SIZE
Classification Size (mm) Recognition
VERY FINE GRAINED <0.2 Individual grains cannot be seen with a hand lens.
FINE GRAINED. 0.2-0.6 Just visible as individual grained under hand lens.
MEDIUM GRAINED 0.6-2 Grains clearly visible under hand lens, just visible to the naked eye.
COARSE GRAINED 06-Feb Grains clearly visible to the naked eye.
VERY COARSE GRAINED >6 Grains measurable.

DISCONTINUITY ORIENTATION
Discontinuity inclinations (i.e. of joints, bedding, faults) relative to down-axis of core (i.e. 90° = vertical and 0° = horizontal).
For orientated core, true azimuths are given.

Page A4.vi
 DISCONTINUITY SPACING JOINT / DISCONTINUITY FILLING
Separation Spacing (foliation, Spacing (fractures, Infilling Definition (wall separation (mm)
(mm) cleavage, bedding) joints). CLEAN No fracture filling.
<6 Very intensely. Colouration on rock only. No recognisable filling
Extremely closely. STAINED
6-20 Intensely. material.
20-60 Very thinly Very closely. FILLED Filled with finite thickness of filling material.
60-200 Thinly Closely.
200-600 Medium Medium.
600-2000 Thickly. Widely.
>2000 Very thickly. Very widely.

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