AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Geotechnics - Module 2

Once the basic knowledge on the mechanical behavior of soil has been acquired in Module 1, the objective of this unit is to provide the student with the application tools necessary to face engineering problems consistent with the professional profile of a three-year graduate. The course aims to provide the knowledge and methods for the experimental characterization of soils, for performing filtration analyses in steady-state and transient conditions, for the geotechnical design of shallow foundations and gravity retaining walls.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: Planning and control of geotechnical investigations (laboratory and in situ tests). Assessment and use of soil parameters in geotechnical analyses. Choice of shallow foundation types. Routine design methods for shallow foundations and for gravity retaining walls. Knowledge and application of the technical standards (Norme Tecniche per le Costruzioni: D.M. 17/1/2018 - EC7).

TEACHING METHODS

This module uses lectures, tutorial exercises, case histories, coursework exercises and (at least) a Geotechnical Laboratory visit.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Geotechnics –Module 1

• Introduction to geotechnical engineering.
• General features of soils and geological processes.
• Description, identification and classification of soils.
• Stress states in soils. Stress history.
• Pore pressure, effective stress and drainage.
• Steady and Transient flow in soil.
• Stress-strain and Strength characteristics. Critical State. Non-linear soil behaviour.

Geotechnics –Module 2

• One–dimensional consolidation theory and applications.
• Laboratory testing: compression; strength; stiffness.
• In situ testing
• Shallow foundations : stability and  settlements
• Retaining walls: earth pressure and design methods.
• Outlines on deep foundations and on the load capacity of a single pile.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Reading lists (available at  School of Engineering Libraries)

R. Berardi (2020), Fondamenti di Geotecnica, 4a ed .Città Studi, De Agostini Scuola

L. Tonni, G. Gottardi (2010), Esercizi di Geotecnica, Soc. Editrice Esculapio, Bologna

R. Lancellotta (2008) Geotechnical Engineering, 2nd edition, Taylor & Francis.

R. Lancellotta (2004), Geotecnica, 3a ed., Zanichelli

R. Lancellotta, J. Calavera (1999), “Fondazioni”. McGraw-Hill

C. Viggiani, (1999) “Fondazioni”. Hevelius Ed.

G. Berardi (1974), “Ingegneria delle Fondazioni”. Enciclopedia dell’Ingegneria, ISEDI

Web resources

Set of lectures and exercises (AulaWeb)