Description

Theory/Practice
2

Laboratory
2

Instructors

José Fernandes

Contents

1 Weight-volume relationships. Identification and classification of soils. (CP1 - 20%)
1.1 Introduction.
1.2 Basic definitions.
1.3 Grain sized composition of soil
1.4 The importance of size analysis of granular soils.
1.5 Consistency limits (or Atterberg).
1.6 Clay minerals.
1.7 Soil classification (AASHTO and ASTM systems).
 

2 Stress in soil mass. (CP2 - 30%)
2.1 Effective stress principal.
2.2 Stress in soil mass. Quick condition and piping.
2.3 Stress caused by external forces.
 

3 Water in soils. (CP3 - 20%)
3.1 Introduction.
3.2 Darcy?s Law. Permeability.
3.3 Determination of permeability coefficient ?in situ?. Pumping from wells. Seepage.
 

4 Compressibility and consolidation of fine saturated soils. (CP4 - 30%)
4.1 Stress-deformation relationship and time effect. Consolidation test.
4.2 Evaluation of soil settlement by consolidation.
4.3 Terzaghi Consolidation theory.
4.4 Consolidation techniques.

Learning Outcomes

The student should be able to:
Solve practical problems on (OB1):
- Identification and classification of soils
- Physical and mechanical characteristics of soil
- State of stress in massive earth
- Water in soils
- Soil compressibility and consolidation
- Outline the necessary tests to establish the characterizations of soils. Select the methodologies and standards for each test (OB2).
- Develop and execute geotechnical characterization (OB3).
- Design and implement studies in geotechnical engineering works, including foundations (OB4).
- Develop solutions and make value judgments on the performance of geotechnical projects (OB5).