Learning objectives
Knowledge:
At the end of the course the student will know the basic elements for an appropriate reading and interpretation of all aspects dealing with the soil,
its mechanical behavior and soil-structure interaction, in the design and construction of civil works. The student will demonstrate to understand
the technical-scientific terminology in the geotechnical field.
Skills:
The student will be able to carry out the geotechnical design of a simple shallow foundation and of a retaining wall.
Judgement:
The student will acquire the ability to interpret both field and laboratory geotechnical data and to model a real problem, in order to find the technically sound design solutions.
Communication skills:
The student should have acquired sufficient proper use of the language with regard to the topic specific terminology. The student will be able to write a report dealing with the design of a ahallow foundation.
Prerequisites
The good knowledge of the fundamental of Structural mechanics is strongly recommended.
Course unit content
Common problems of geotechnical engineering, with particular reference to practical application problems related to foundations and support structures.
Full programme
1) Introduction to geotechnical engineering;
2) Main characteristics of soils and soil classification;
3) Stess in soil;
4) Soil stiffness;
5) Change in stress;
6) Soil strength;
7) Shallow foundations;
8) Deep foundations;
9) Retaining structures;
10) Field investigations;
11) Seismic conditions.
Bibliography
L. Montrasio “Lezioni di geotecnica”, Ed. Santa Croce (Parma)
D.M. Wood "Soil mechanics - a one-dimensional introduction", Cambridge University Press
Teaching methods
The course consists of a series of lectures and exercises. The exercises are presented and carried out in the classroom.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam consists in a written test.
Other information
This is a blended course. Blended training means adopting an approach that combines elements of traditional training with trainer-led online activities. It means that only 3 classes in the semester will take place in the virtual classroom. The rest of the work is organized online on the Elly platform and students are free to study the learning material according to their own schedule.
The dates of virtual classrooms and related links are published on the Elly platform at the beginning of the semester.
