Slope Stability and Reinforcement

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

Teaching model based on theoretical-practical classes, combining in a balanced way theoretical explanations of concepts and theories related to the topics with the presentation and discussion of case studies, and also contact with relevant projects, either through invited experts either through visits to construction sites.

Students will also be encouraged to make small practical course works in order to implement the knowledge acquired, simulating simplified real cases.

Learning Outcomes

It is intended that the student acquires a set of knowledge and tools that allow him to understand the instability processes of natural and man-made slopes, and take technical decisions regading the choice and design of reinforcement solutions. At the end of the course the student should be able to:

- Plan geological/geotechnical campaigns regarding the study of the slope;

- Understand the phenomenology regarding the failure of natural and constructed embankments;

- Evaluate, design and calculate stabilization solutions

- Develop and / or apply analytical and numerical models for calculation;

- Compare stabilization solutions, bearing in mind the idea of sustainability;

- Evaluate risks.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Types of slopes: natural, man-made; earth and rock

2. Types of instability on slopes

3. Characterization of slopes

4. Methods of analysis of slope stability in soil masses:

4.1 Definition of safety factor. Stability analysis, calculation methods. Backanalysis techniques

4.2 The case of infinite slopes and vertical excavations

4.3 stability conditions in the short, medium and long term

4.4 stabilization measures: geometry changes, drainage, vegetation, erosion control, support works, anchoring, nailing

4.5 Historical cases. Portuguese examples

5. slope stability analysis methods in rock masses

5.1 Importance of discontinuities and orientation

5.2 Strength parameters. Hydrogeological conditions. In situ stress

5.3 Evaluation of potential failures

5.4 Numerical methods applied to rock slopes. Physical models

5.5 Reinforcement techniques, stabilization and protection to rocky slopes

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Project: 30.0%
Exam: 70.0%

Bibliography

- Elementos a fornecer nas aulas pelos docentes.

- Lee W. Abramson, Thomas S. Lee, Sunil Sharma (2001). “Slope Stability and Stabilization Methods”, 2nd edition.

- Lacasse S. (2013) “8th Terzaghi Oration: Protecting society from landslides – the role of the geotechnical engineer”. Proceedings of the 18th International Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering, Paris 2013.