Introduction to urban geotechnics

Recommended Prerequisites

The course is an introduction to geotechnics, thus it does not require specialized technical skills, although the students should have a knowledge of basic mathematical and physical concepts.

Teaching Methods

Classes combine oral presentation with learn-by-doing approaches. The contents are lectured in a practical and interactive way, with basis on case-study analysis and practical challenges. Also, methods include project-base learning (group work).

Learning Outcomes

The main objectives of this course are to provide the students with the knowledge to perform the identification and characterization of soils and rocks, qualitatively evaluating the interactions with the structures built there.

Specifically it is intended that students acquire and consolidate knowledge:

i) in geology in order to explain the genesis of soils and rocks, making their qualitative description taking into account the engineering problems to be solved and the associated environmental impacts;

ii) in soil and rock mechanics in order to perform a qualitative analysis of the stability of soils and rocks, highlighting the relevant aspects of the soils/rocks to be considered in the stages of the project;

iii) to identify the different types of foundations, characterizing qualitatively the respective interactions with the soils and rocks where they are installed;

iv) in the use of geotechnical materials and creation of geotechnical constructions with a sustainability perspective. 

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1- Ground Identification:

1.1- Characteristics of rock masses (Formation and major rock geomechanical parameters. Classification of rock massifs)

1.2- Characteristics of soils (Physical and identification properties. Soil classification)

1.3- Geological and geotechnical subsurface investigation (Concept of reconnaissance and zoning. Geological maps. Geotechnical subsurface investigation plan, execution and interpretation)

2- Basis for the Geotechnical Design in Urban Environments:

2.1- Strength, deformability, permeability and environmental performance of a terrain

2.2- Selection of the type of structures’ foundations

2.3- Risk analysis and interaction with surrounding structures

2.4- Observation and instrumentation

2.5- Use of non-conventional geotechnical materials in sustainable geotechnical works;

3- Geotechnical constructions in urban environment for a sustainable development incorporating climate change effects: waste landfills, tunnels, embankments, excavations and slopes.

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Report of a seminar or field trip: 20.0%
Project: 30.0%
Exam: 50.0%

Bibliography

HOLTZ, R.D.; Kovacs, W.D.; Sheahan, T.C. (2011). AN INTRODUCTION·TO GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING Second Edition, Pearson

FERNANDES, M. M. (2006). Mecânica dos Solos -vol.s 1e 2, FEUP Edições

FERNANDES, M.M. (2020). Analysis And Design Of Geotechnical Structures, CRC PRESS

VALLEJO, L. (2002). Ingeniería Geológica. Madrid: Pearson Education