Environmental Geotechnics

Recommended Prerequisites

Geotechnical Fundamentals.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes with detailed presentation of the subjects with reference to relevant case studies when possible.

Theoretical-practical classes where the students, supervised by the teacher, solve proposed practical exercises.

Laboratory and field classes where the students follow the performance of tests with subsequent treatment and interpretation of results.

Site visits.

Learning Outcomes

Enable students for the application of geotechnical principles and theories to situations where there is a great environmental component, starting with the prevention of environmental risks (accidents) by a proper site investigation, monitoring, soil improvement, and finally by dealing with the negative impact of the waste, by consideration of the waste reuse and disposal in landfill.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

- Introduction: the geotechnical engineering and the environment preservation.

- Site investigation: methodology, site investigation planning, cartography, geophysical and mechanical site investigation techniques, sampling;

- Instrumentation and monitoring: equipment, test procedure and data processing;

- Safety conception, geotechnical risk analysis, Eurocodes. Introduction to those methodologies for assessing the stability of geotechnical structures (embankments, slopes, excavations, retaining walls, foundations); Shear strength

- Soil erosion: processes and methods for erosion control

- Soil improvement: shallow and deep compaction, soil stabilization by admixtures, preconsolidation, columns, grouting, reinforcing technics;

- Waste materials: production, properties, disposal in landfills, geosynthetics

- Geotechnical properties and reuse of tailings. Reuse of construction and demolition waste

- Radioactive waste.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

Matos Fernandes, M. (2006) – Mecânica dos Solos – Conceitos e Princípios Fundamentais, Vol. I, Edições FEUP.

Environmental Geotechnics – Robert Sarsby

Environmental Geology – C.W. Monpgomery.