طلل عبيد عبدالله الرفيعى

 

 

CE486

IMPROVEMENT OF GEOTECHNICL MATERIALS

Course Description:

Improving performance of soils for engineering applications.  Analysis of methods of stabilizing soils and rocks including topics on:  Mechanical and chemical stabilization and earth reinforcement. . Introduction to computer applications. Group study.

 

Course learning Objectives

Students completing this course successfully will be able to

1.       Understand basic behaviour of problematic soil.

2.       Understand the need for engineered ground improvement

3.       Understand suitability, feasibility, and desirability of ground improvement methods.

4.       Determine the aims of improving soils as foundation or construction materials.

5.       Select the proper type of soil modification.

6.       Evaluate modification techniques.

7.       Understand and apply specification requirements and control tests.

8.       Use computer software to determine the required pump rate and the number of wells in dewatering of excavation.

9.       Improve the communication skills, including reading, writing, oral presentations.

 

Topics Covered

1.       Mechanical Modification: Methods of Compaction, Principles of Soil Densification, Properties of Compacted Soil, Compaction Control Tests, Specification of Compaction Requirements(14 hrs)

2.       Hydraulic Modification: Hydraulics of Slots and Wells, Design of Dewatering Systems, Filtration, Drainage and Seepage Control, Preloading and Vertical Drains(14 hrs)

3.       Physical and Chemical Modification: Modification by Admixtures, Grouting(8 hrs)

4.       Modification by Inclusions: Reinforced Soil, Ground Anchors and Rock bolts(7 hrs)

5.       Computer applications(2 hrs)

 

Class/ tutorial  Schedule

Three lecture sessions and one tutorial session per week (50 minute each session)

A term paper about selected modification techniques is required for students in groups during the course, to encourage the students to searching the net.  A written report and oral presentation is required.

 

Textbook(s)

1-       Engineering Principles of Ground Modification, by M.R. Hausmann, McGraw-Hill

2-       Ground Improvement,byM.P Moseley,Blackie Academic&Professiona

  

 

Grade Distribution

         Mid-term Exam                                            25%

         Homework and Attendance                           15%

         Term paper                                                 10%

         Final Exam                                                  50%