73360 - ENGINEERING GEOLOGY

Conoscenze e abilità da conseguire

The course is aimed at studying the engineering and environmental problems which may arise as a result of the interaction between geology and human activities. The main goal of the course is to improve the knowledge of geological and geomorphological processes, developing skills in the analysis of their effects on civil engineering design. On completion of this course, students will be able to: make preliminary site assessments on the basis of desk-study information; plan a programme of site investigation, selecting suitable invasive and non-invasive ground techniques; contribute to hydro-geological hazard assessment and to the development of measures for prevention and remediation of geological hazards.

Contenuti

A prior knowledge and understanding of basic geology are required to attend with profit this course.

Fluent spoken and written English is a necessary pre-requisite as well: all lectures and tutorials, and all study material will be in English.

With reference to the aims of the course, the programme will deal with the topics listed hereafter, with particular reference to unstable slopes.

a. Assessment of the geological model on the basis of the characteristics of soils and rocks and their mechanical behaviour, of a geognostic campaigns and of monitoring data;

b. Case studies of surveys and campaigns aimed at the assessment of the geological model of unstable slopes;

c. Monitoring: devices and applications in different geological and geomorphological contexts.

Testi/Bibliografia

For general and specific topics, the following books are recommended:

- Hoek E., Practical Rock Engineering -http://www.rocscience.com/Hoekcorner.htm

- Turner A. K. & Schuster L.R., Landslides: investigation and mitigation. TRB Special Report 247

- Dikau R., Brunsden D., Schrott L., Ibsen M.L. , Landslide Recognition: Identification, Movement and Causes, Wiley

Metodi didattici

Lessons, lab exercises, field trip.

Modalità di verifica e valutazione dell'apprendimento

Exercises and homework on different key topics will be assigned during the course. Achievements will be assessed by the means of a final written exam, based on an analytical assessment of the "expected learning outcomes" described above.
The final session consists of a review of the homework and written exam on the course contents.
Higher grades will be awarded to students who demonstrate the organic understanding of the subject, the ability in critical applications, and a clear and concise presentation of the contents in their homework.
To obtain a passing grade, students are required to at least demonstrate a knowledge of the key concepts of the subject, some ability for critical application, and a comprehensible use of technical language.
A failing grade will be awarded if the student shows knowledge gaps in key-concepts of the subject, inappropriate use of language, and/or logic failures in the analysis of the subject.

Strumenti a supporto della didattica

Videos and other contents from the web will complement the teaching material. Some practical activities will be carried out on thematic maps and with specific software. The notes will be provided during the course.

Orario di ricevimento

Consulta il sito web di Lisa Borgatti