Applied geology

Academic Year 2024/2025 - Teacher: SIMONE MINEO

Expected Learning Outcomes

The course aims to provide students with a complete overview of the main techniques of direct investigation of the subsoil, physical-mechanical properties of the soil and the related geotechnical laboratory characterization through instrumental tests. At the end of the course the student will have the necessary knowledge to interpret survey logs, to perform and interpret the main laboratory tests on soil samples.

Course Structure

Generally, teaching is carried out through practical lessons and exercises both in the classroom and at the Applied Geology laboratory, with the support of multimedia material (slides projected during the lessons) and possible handouts. Practical exercises are planned on some of the topics covered (e.g. drafting a survey report, interpretation of the granulometric analysis of a soil sample and construction of the relative granulometric curve, interpretation of data relating to a direct shear test and calculation of the main shear resistance parameters).

Required Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of math and physics.

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. Borehole drilling and soil sampling.

2. Shear strength and main physical and mechanical properties of soils.

3. 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	Borehole drilling and sampling
4	Particle size analysis, Atterberg limits.
5	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?

- What are the main digging tools to be used in continuous core drilling?

VERSIONE IN ITALIANO

Degree Course in

Geological Sciences