Geotechnical Design module (CE40002)

In this module, you will be introduced to geotechnical design, which involves the analysis and design of structures, while considering the properties of rock and soil.

You will gain an understanding of why ground conditions need to be assessed, and the importance of stability and safety of foundations, slopes, and structures that are underground. 
 

This module equips you with more advanced skills in geotechnical design, building on what you have already learnt in a previous module (Soil Mechanics).

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• learn about the critical state concept for soil and the appropriate use of disturbed soil properties in geotechnical design
• be introduced to the methods used to conduct ground investigation
• gain an understanding of how limit analysis and deformation analysis methods are applied to design
• develop knowledge of the Eurocodes which cover geotechnical design
• learn how principles of sustainability can be integrated into geotechnical design
• learn about the fundamental concepts of rock mechanics and how they are applied during the design process
• learn about the analytical techniques used to evaluate rock slope stability and foundations in rock

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• develop a ground model
• design common geotechnical systems to the relevant Eurocodes
• design foundations using limit analysis and deformation analysis
• conduct foundation analysis relating to rocks

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (60%)
• exam (40%)

Teaching methods / timetable

• lectures
  • lectures are in-person
  • complemented by online videos
• workshops
  • hands-on computer-based design sessions