Applied geology
Academic Year 2023/2024 - Teacher: SIMONE MINEOExpected Learning Outcomes
Course Structure
Generally, the class takes place through practical lessons and exercises both in the classroom and in the laboratory of Applied Geology, with the support of multimedia material (slides shown during the class). The lecturer will illustrate to the students the procedures of the main laboratory tests for the physical and mechanical characterization of soils, along with the methods of data processing and related interpretation. Practical exercises will be carried out on some of the topics covered (e.g. interpretation of the particle size analysis of a soil sample and construction of the relative grain size curve, interpretation of data relating to a direct shear test and calculation of the main shear strength parameters).
Required Prerequisites
Attendance of Lessons
Attendance to class is compulsory. Working students should refer to the University teaching regulations.
Information for students with disabilities and / or SLD:
To guarantee equal opportunities, in compliance with the laws in force, interested students can ask for a personal interview with the lecturer to plan any compensatory and / or dispensation measure, according to the didactic objectives and specific needs. It is also possible to contact the referent lecturer CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration - Services for Disabilities and / or SLD) of our Department, prof. Giorgio De Guidi.
Detailed Course Content
1. Shear strength and main physical and mechanical properties of soils.
2. Geotechnical laboratory tests: particle size analysis, Atterberg limits, direct shear test, triaxial test, oedometric test, Proctor test.
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The soil shear strenght | |
| 2 | The main engineering geological parameters of soils | |
| 3 | Particle size analysis, Atterberg limits. | |
| 4 | Direct shear test, triaxial test, oedometric test, Proctor test. |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
Exam is oral and will be carried out in person through questions on the class program. The final mark will represent the balanced evaluation of preparation and synthesis, as well as exposure and connection skills, shown by the candidate during the exam. The commitment, perseverance and interest shown by the student during the lectures and practical activities will also be taken into account. During the exam, the student may also be asked to write down some formulas, among those studied, and / or to outline some concepts (e.g. test diagrams and graphs).
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
- Which parameters govern the shear strength of a soil?
- What do “drained conditions” and “undrained conditions” mean?
- Please, draw the graph resulting from the execution of a UU triaxial test.
- Please, provide the definition of "liquidity limit".
- How is the uniformity coefficient of a soil sample calculated?
- What is the principle behind densimetry?
- What does OCR over-consolidation degree means?