Geotechnical Engineering 1

The main focus in the course is geotechnical engineering, and to develop the understanding of how soil material acts in building foundations, stability of slopes, excavations and embankments.

The understanding of soil mechanics requires knowledge in geology, the origin of the various components of the soil, and the processes of nature behind the creation of the sediments. The course therefore includes geology, focusing on surface soil sediments, mineralogy and rock- and stone masses used in construction works.

The course is the main basis for continued studies in geotechnical engineering at MSc level.

Topics:

• how soil sediments are created
• soil composition and properties
• stresses and stress changes in soil
• soil stiffness
• settlement
• strength of soil
• ground water flow
• bearing capacity of foundations on soil
• earth pressure
• stability of slopes, cuts and embankments

Knowledge

The candidate shall have knowledge of

• Earth crust composition, focusing on Norwegian conditions
• Creation of soil sediments and rock masses
• Properties of soil sediments and rock masses
• Classification and identification of soils
• Stresses in soils, earth pressure, bearing capacity, settlements and stability
• Groundwater flow

Skills

The candidate shall have the skills to

• Identify and assess the characteristics of Norwegian soils
• Calculate stresses and settlements of fills and foundations
• Use flow grids to analyze water flow in soil
• Calculate the stability of a slope under given geometry, soil type and strength and ground water conditions
• Calculate earth pressure and resultant forces on basement walls and on support walls in deep excavations
• Analyze how terrain changes affect structure integrity and stability
• Calculate the required foundations dimensions to accommodate given loads

General competence

The candidate shall possess a competence in geotechnical engineering and geology that enables him/her to practice in civil engineering teams of consulting engineers, contractors and clients.

Lectures, exercises and tutorials with guidance. Laboratory exercises and demonstrations.