Introduction to geotechnics

Part A

The course presents an introduction to soil mechanics and design of geotechnical works, for students from scientific but non engineering masters. The dimensioning methods are especially summarised.
The course contents follows :

• Introduction to solid mechanics
• Soil mechanics : introduction, granular media, physical properties, classification, water in soils, seepage, soil - water interaction, mechanical properties, in situ stress state.
• Slope stability
• Retaining structures : gravity walls, sheet piles
• Shallow foundations, deep foundations
• Roads : design, structural behaviour

Part A

At the course end, a student will be able to present basic soil mechanics concepts, and to explain how geotechnics works proceed. He will be able to shortly analyse current geotechnical works.
He will be able to analyse scientific articles in a short literature review on a topic related to the lecture and present the results in writing and orally in a scientific formalism, clear, accurate and structured. The student will also be able to write reports of laboratory visits clearly and accurately.

Part A

The theorical lecture is given ex-cathedra. The laboratory visits are conducted in the geotechnical laboratory. Two practical works sessions are devoted to the calculation of the bearing capacity and settlement of shallow foundations. A briefing on the geotechnical mapping is also provided in which students manipulate various maps and apply it to a specific and pratical geotechnical case.
In addition, the student will perform a series of personal works:

• writing reports explaining the tests and techniques illustrated in the laboratory. These reports must be submitted within 8 days of each visit;

• a literature revew conducted by each student, based on articles in English and French. The results of this analysis are presented in the form of a written report and a oral presentation (power point) for all students and teachers.

Part A

Lecture and pratical work face-to-face + some personal works.

Part A

Lectures notes avalaible at student centrale des cours - AEES. They are also avalaible on MyULg, as well as the slide used during the courses.

Part A

The evaluation is based 50% on an oral exam and 50% of the production of laboratory visits (directly following the visits and so valid also for the 2nd session) and literature review.
The oral exam focuses on the theory. It is closed book. Two synthesis questions are asked.

Part A

The course is organised during the 1st quadrimester, on Monday morning.

Part A

R. Charlier, Robert.Charlier@ULg.ac.be

 

Part A

The examination covers all the chapters.

Part A

The exam will be written, and deals with theory. The statement will be deposited on the eCampus platform at the beginning of the exam. Students will answer handwritten questions on free sheets, from which they will deposit a scanned version in pdf or jpg format on the eCampus site before the deadline.

Part A

rock mechanics - uniaxial and triaxial compression, traction
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