Stability of Geotechnical Structures

Recommended Prerequisites

Mechanics II, Engineering Geology, Soil Mechanics.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical lectures with detailed exposition, using overhead projection, of the concepts, principles and fundamental theories, supported by the resolution of some practical problems that frame the students with all the theoretical subjects addressed.  Theoretical-practical classes where the students solve under the supervision of the teacher some applied exercises. Here the students could involve the use of some commercial computer programmes.

Learning Outcomes

In complement to the subjects delivered in Soil Mechanics, firstly is intended to give to the students the main methodologies used to evaluate the global stability of the earth massive. Next are given the additional design concepts and to access the safety of natural slopes, shallow foundations and rigid retaining walls.

 Acquiring capabilities in synthesis and analysis, written communication,computer skills, problems solving, critic reflection, autonomous learning and practical application of theoretical knowledge.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Stability and stabilization of slopes

1.1 Classification; types of slopes anf failure surfaces

1.2 Causes for failure.

1.3 Stability of slopes in terms of total and effective stresses. Method of slices; Taylor and Bishop and Morgenstern abacus.

1.4 Stabilization methods.

2. Shallow foundations

2.1 Types of foundations.

2.2 Bearing capacity.

3. Rigid retaining walls

 3.1 Active and passive earth pressures and conditions for their mobilization.

3.2 Rankine and Coulomb theories.

3.3 External design (static conditions).

3.4 Drainage. 

Head Lecturer(s)

Paulo José Venda Oliveira

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Practical work (use of commercial software): 10.0%
Mini Tests: 15.0%
Exam: 75.0%

Bibliography

• Matos Fernandes, M. (2011) – Mecânica dos Solos – Introdução à Engenharia Geotécnica, Vol. II, Edições FEUP.

• Das, B. M. (2000) - Fundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering, Brooks/Cole.

• Craigh, R. F. (2000) -  Soil Mechanics, Van Nostrand Reinhold.

• Atkinson, J.H. (1993) - An Introduction to the Mechanics of Soils and Foundations, McGraw-Hill.