Geotechnics I

Recommended Prerequisites

Engineering Geology knowledge.

Teaching Methods

Lectures with presentation of the topics, with frequent reference to cases studies. Theoretical and practical classes where students solve proposed exercises, with the guidance of teacher. Preparation of technical reports. Study site visit.  

Learning Outcomes

1. Use the Geotechnical concepts in order to assess the importance of this branch of knowledge.

2. To plan, execute and interpret the results of geological and geotechnical studies, using for this purpose adequate office, field and laboratory works.

3. Propose geotechnical solutions deemed most appropriate taking into account the technical, economic and temporal perspectives.

4. Prepare, process, interpret and communicate in oral and written forms, the results obtained in the course.

5. Develop research capabilities, analysis and interpretation of geotechnical environment and its implications. 

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Mechanical behavior of soils, earth mass, rocks and rock masses.

2. Characterization of the ground for shallow and deep foundations. Planning and execution of a site investigation campaign.

3. Techniques for current and special site investigation in soils and rocks.

4. Use of geotechnical testing: principles, application and interpretation.

4.1 Soils: plate load, SPT, CPTU, dynamic penetrometer, vane test, pressuremeter, Marcheti, etc.

4.2 Rock: plate load, flat jack, dilatometer, STT, Lugeon, etc.

4.3 Geotechnical instrumentation.

5. Geomechanical classifications and its use.

6. Geotechnical maps. Geotechnical zoning: methodology, interpretation and presentation. Applications to dams, roads and underground works. 

Head Lecturer(s)

Mário de Oliveira Quinta Ferreira

Assessment Methods

Final Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Continuous Assessment
Resolution Problems: 50.0%
Frequency: 50.0%

Bibliography

Vallejo, L. et al. (2004) – Ingeniería Geológica. Pearson.

Schnaid, F. (2005) – Ensaios de campo e suas aplicações à engenharia de fundações. Oficina de Textos.

Cernica, J. (1995) – Foundation Design. John Wiley & Soons.

Wyllie, D. C. (1992) - Foundations on Rock. Second Edition, E & FN Spoon.