Applied Geology and Geotechnics

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide knowledge of the criteria and methods for studying geotechnical systems and designing geotechnical structures, including those in seismic zones. This includes the preliminary assessment of the site's geological hazard, the definition of the geotechnical model using available investigation tools, the definition and sizing of geotechnical structures (walls, bulkheads, foundations, drains, etc.), and finally, monitoring of the system and structure. Special attention will be given to the study of slope stability, landslides (earth and rock), and related remediation and defense measures. Each aspect will be covered through exercises, referencing the NTC-18 technical standard.

Expected learning outcomes

At the end of the course and exercises, students will be able to address a problem in applied geology and geotechnics, starting from sensitivity to geological hazard and associated risk, to problem recognition, the variables involved and how to obtain them through appropriate investigations, to the evaluation and sizing of mitigation interventions or interaction structures and, finally, geotechnical monitoring.

Course contents

Module 01 – Introduction and Geological Hazard

• 01.1 significant volume
• 01.2 stratigraphic profile
• 01.3 Reference Geotechnical Model

Module 02 – Investigations

• Switchboard
• on-site investigations
• geophysical surveys
• laboratory investigations

Module 03 – Landslides and slope stability

• 03.1 Slope Stability Methodological Approach
• 03.2 Landslide Remediation
• 03.3 Investigation, Control and Monitoring
• 03.4 Regulatory aspects and exercise

Module 04 – The Walls

• 04.1 Walls, methodological approach
• 04.2 Regulatory aspects and exercise

Module 05 – the Bulkheads

• – Geotechnics – Building Science – Geology05.1 typologies, techniques and technologies, methodological approach
• 05.2 Regulatory aspects and exercise

Module 06 – Constitutive Models

• 06.1 Complex soil-structure interaction analysis. Introduction to constitutive models and elastoplastic continuum modeling
• 06.2 Exercise

Module 07 – Dynamic Behavior of Soils

• 07.1 Dynamic behavior of soils
• 07.2 Susceptibility to liquefaction, exercise

Module 08 – Introduction to Rock Mechanics

• 08.1 Introductory notes on the behavior of rock masses
• 08.2 Introductory notes on rock front stability

Prerequisites

– Geotechnics – Building Science – Geology

Reading/Bibliography

• Geotechnics (Lancellotta)
• Foundations (Viggiani)
• Rock Slope Stability (Hoek & Bray)
• Applied geology (relevant texts) Specific bibliography will be given during the course.

Teaching methods

For each topic covered there will be a first introductory part highlighting the critical issues, techniques and technologies, moving on to a theoretical approach to reach the solution of the problem. Finally, exercises on real cases will help to understand both the tools that the future engineer will have available in the profession and how to design and size in the geotechnical field.

Assessment methods

The exam consists of an oral exam following the presentation of an assignment given at the end of the year. The assignment must be submitted one week before the exam. The oral exam consists of a discussion of the assignment and questions on the program covered during the year.

Additional info

Office hours can be in person or remotely. For any thesis titles, please contact me directly.