Introduction to geoengineering
J P Seidel and A K Parkin
3 points * 11 lectures, 24 hours of design class or practicals, 4 hours of site visits * Second semester * Clayton
Objectives To gain knowledge of the origins of soil and rock; to be able to identify basic soil and rock types and appreciate the importance on grain size, void ratio and relative density; to understand basic engineering models used to predict the performance of foundations, retaining walls and slopes in soil and rock; to be able to apply these models in the practice of geotechnical engineering design; and to improve written and oral communication and computing skills.
Synopsis Overview of problems faced by geotechnical engineers; the geotechnical spectrum; origin of soils and rocks and their similarities and differences; classification of rock and soil based on grain size and origin; void ratio and relative density; basic shear strength measurement in direct shear; bearing capacity of simple shallow foundations, stresses below foundations and elastic settlements of foundations; insitu stresses and buoyant weights, simple retaining wall and slope stability analysis. Problem-based subject; students work in groups of three to solve practical geotechnical engineering problems.
Assessment Design assignment: 50% * Examination (2 hours): 50% * Students must pass both assignment and examination components.
Recommended texts
Bowles J E Foundation analysis and design McGraw-Hill, 1988
Das B M Principles of geotechnical engineering PWS-Kent, 1995
Scott C R An introduction to soil mechanics and foundations Applied Science Publishers
Atkinson J Introduction to the mechanics of soils and foundations McGraw-Hill, 1993
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