Ground Characterization and Modelling

Recommended Prerequisites

Engineering Geology (LEC)

Soil Mechanics (LEC)

Stability of Geotechnical Structures (LEC)

Geotechnical Works (MEC).

Teaching Methods

Theoretical-practical classes where, at first, the concepts, principles and fundamental theories related to the behaviour of soil and rock masses are presented. At a second stage, the students solve exercises from the unit’s practical material, with guidance from the teacher. This solution involves frequently the use of professional software as a learning aid, exposing the students to design tools which they will encounter on their professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

1º Module:

The main aim is exploring, with some detail, the mechanical properties of soils and to establish the relationships between stress, strain and shear strength of soils. To introduce students to concepts of elasticity and plasticity in soils, with the presentation of mathematical models that describe and predict the behavior of soils.

2º Module:

Present the students to the specific concepts of Rock Mechanics, with particular emphasis on its application to problems of underground works and slopes.

Regarding generic competencies, the unit aims that the students develop analysis and syntheses skills, problem solving competences, work in group, critic thought and use of theoretical concepts on practical situations. Besides these, competences on oral a written communication, use of the internet as communication tool and source of information, in understanding the language of other specialists and self-learning are also pursued.

Work Placement(s)

No

Head Lecturer(s)

António Alberto Santos Correia

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Calculation of pratical cases: 40.0%
Exam: 60.0%

Bibliography

- Diapositivos das aulas e notas desenvolvidas pelos docentes durante a explicação das matérias.

- J. H. Atkinson & P.L. Bransby (1977). "An Introduction to Critical State Soil Mechanics", McGraw-Hill.

- R. Davis & A. Selvadurai, A. (2002) "Plasticity and Geomechanics", Cambridge University Press.

- David Muir Wood (1991). "Soil behaviour and critical state soil mechanics", Cambridge.

- M. Budhu (2010) "Soil mechanics and foundations", John Wiley and Sons.

- Pinto, P.L. (2017) – Apontamentos sobre Mecânica das Rochas, DEC-FCTUC

- Hoek, E. (2007) - Practical Rock Engineering.

- Vallejo, L. G., Ferrer, M., Ortuño, L. e Oteo, C. (2002) - Ingeniería Geológica, Pearson Educación, Madrid.

- Hudson, J. A. e Harrison, J. P. (1997) - Engineering rock mechanics: an introduction to the principles, Oxford: Pergamon.

- Goodman, R. E. (1989) - Introduction to Rock Mechanics, 2nd ed., Wiley, New York.