TECHNICAL GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY
Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher:
SIMONE MINEO
Expected Learning Outcomes
The course is divided into two parts:
Engineering Geology (lecturer: Prof. Simone Mineo)
Hydrogeology (lecturer: Prof.ssa Giovanna Pappalardo)
For the Hydrogeology section, please refer to the syllabus of Prof.ssa Giovanna Pappalardo.
ENGINEERING GEOLOGY SECTION
Knowledge and understanding
The “Engineering Geology” section aims to provide students with a comprehensive overview of:
1) main direct subsurface investigation techniques;
2) physical and mechanical properties of soils and their geotechnical characterization through laboratory and in situ testing;
3) main types of foundations and soil–structure interaction.
Applying knowledge and understanding
By the end of the course, students will have acquired the knowledge required to independently analyze earth materials in both field and laboratory settings and to communicate the results of their analyses. In particular, they will develop competencies in the interpretation of geotechnical borehole logs, as well as in the execution and interpretation of the principal laboratory and in situ tests on unconsolidated and weakly cemented geological materials. Students will also develop the ability to synthesize and apply geotechnical knowledge to common engineering and design applications.
Making judgements
Students will be able to independently interpret information derived from direct geotechnical investigations and laboratory testing, and to critically analyse technical data.
Communication skills
Students will acquire the ability to produce technical documentation (borehole reports, laboratory test reports) and to communicate concepts using appropriate technical language to both specialist and non-specialist audiences. The oral examination will further help students refine their technical language and communication skills.
Learning skills
Students will be able to independently expand their knowledge of the topics covered through the study of textbooks and relevant technical standards, as well as through laboratory activities, exercises, and any additional educational activities offered within the course.
Course Structure
The course is delivered through theoretical and practical lectures, including exercises both in the classroom and in the Laboratory of Applied Geology and Environmental Hydrogeology, supported by multimedia materials (slides presented during lectures) and any additional handouts. Practical exercises are planned on selected topics, such as the preparation of a borehole report, the interpretation of grain size analysis of a soil sample and the construction of the corresponding grain size distribution curve, as well as the interpretation of data from a direct shear test and the calculation of the main shear strength parameters.
Required Prerequisites
The course requires students to possess basic knowledge of mathematics and physics, fundamental geological concepts, rock identification skills, and geological mapping.
Attendance of Lessons
Attendance is mandatory, in accordance with the Academic Regulations of the degree programme.
Information for Students with Disabilities and/or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD): in order to ensure equalo pportunities and compliance with current legislation, students with disabilities and/or specific learning disorders (SLD) may request an individual meeting with the instructor to discuss and arrange any necessary compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, taking into account the learning objectives of the course and thestudent's specific needs. Students may also contact the Department’s CInAP representative, prof. Gabriele Lanzafame.
Detailed Course Content
Geotechnical drilling and sampling
Types of geotechnical drilling (rotary, percussion, rotary-percussion), excavation tools, and drilling stages. Sampling systems, Rock Quality Designation (RQD), and core recovery percentage.
Shear strength of soils
Stress states in soils, internal friction angle and cohesion, total and effective stresses, and the role of pore water pressure.
In situ and laboratory geotechnical testing
Grain size analysis, Atterberg limits, direct shear test, triaxial test, oedometer test, Proctor compaction test, in situ density test, plate load test, and penetration tests.
Soil–structure interaction
Main types of shallow and deep foundations, geological conditions leading to settlements and instability, and the concept of bearing capacity.
Course Planning
| | Subjects | Text References |
|---|
| 1 | Shear strength of soils | |
| 2 | Main physical and mechanical properties of soils | |
| 3 | Geotechnical drilling and sampling | |
| 4 | Grain size analysis, Atterberg limits | |
| 5 | Direct shear test, triaxial test, oedometer test, Proctor test | |
| 6 | Penetration tests, in situ density tests, and plate load tests | |
| 7 | Shallow and deep foundations | |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
The assessment of learning is conducted through an oral examination based on questions covering the course syllabus. The exam will be carried out jointly with the Hydrogeology component and will address the contents of both modules. The final grade will reflect a balanced evaluation of the candidate’s preparation, as well as their ability to synthesize, present, and connect the topics covered during the examination. Consideration will also be given to the student’s commitment, consistency, and level of engagement demonstrated during lectures and practical activities. During the examination, students may also be asked to write down relevant formulas studied and/or to sketch, freehand, some applied 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 is meant by “drained conditions” and “undrained conditions”?
- Draw the graph resulting from a UU triaxial test.
- Provide the definition of the “liquid limit”.
- How is the coefficient of uniformity of a soil sample calculated?
- What is the principle underlying soil density testing?
- What is meant by the Overconsolidation Ratio (OCR)?
- What are the main drilling tools used in continuous core drilling?
- What is a foundation pile?
- What geological conditions can lead to structural settlements?
- What do SPT and CPT stand for?
