Introduction to Geotechnical Engineering

Course Description

Origin and composition of soils, soil structure. Soil compaction, permeability, seepage and flow nets, consolidation and shear strength. Earth pressure on retaining walls and sheet piles. Stability of slopes and excavations. Mechanical tests: sieve analysis, permeability, resistance to shearing stress, consolidation/expansion.  Index tests: granulometry, Atterberg limits, solid density, and water content. Infrastructure for sampling and in-field testing. Bearing capacity of soils. Site investigation. Mechanics and methodology of foundation engineering; selection and design of foundation systems, including isolated, combined, strip, strap and raft foundations on soft, firm, and expansive soils. Special problems. Introduction to deep foundations

Course ID: ENG 362