Engineering Geological Field Course I (Soils)

Abstract

Application of geotechnical soil classification techniques in outcrops and core samples, including geomorphological and geological field mapping. Imparts knowledge for an understanding of Quarternary processes and their consequences on building (under)ground.Supplements lectures in soil mechanics and geological site investigation techniques.

Objective

a) Students are able to perform a geotechnical characterization of soils according to international standards. b) Students are able to identify different types of soils in samples and in the field. They can interprete geological origin, formation and history of different soil types. c) Students are able to recognize geomorphological structures in the field and analyze their geological formation. d) Students can present their research results in an appropriate way (written and oral).

Content

The course starts with an introduction lecture on soil classification (USCS and Swiss standards), field testing and sampling techniques, borehole logging, mapping techniques and Quaternary geology of Zurich. The main part is an extensive field course which includes a quarry mapping exercise, borhole logging and field maping by geomorphlogical features. Student teams get a mandate for geotechnical investigations on a certain question and have to write a report about their findings. Teaching in the field will primarily consist in guiding the students in their mapping work. Subsequently, the field and laboratory data is analyzed by the students.

Resources