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651-3525-00L 4 Credits BSC , MSC D-USYS , D-ERDW
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Introduction to Engineering Geology

Ingenieurgeologie

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Simon Löw, Dr. Martin Ziegler
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:36:15

Abstract

This introductory course starts from a descriptions of the behavior and phenomena of soils and rocks under near surface loading conditions and their key geotechnical properties. Lab and field methods for the characterization of soils, rocks and rock masses are introduced. Finally practical aspects of ground engineering, including tunneling and landslide hazards are presented.

Objective

Understanding the basic geotechnical and geomechanical properties and processes of rocks and soils. Understanding the interaction of rock and soil masses with technical systems. Understanding the fundamentals of geological hazards.

Content

Rock, soil and rock mass: scale effects and fundamental geotechnical properties. Soil mechanical properties and their determination. Rock mechanical properties and their determination. Fractures: geotechnical properties and their determination. Geotechnical classification of intact rock, soils and rock masses. Natural and induced stresses in rock and soil. Interaction of soil masses with surface loads, water and excavations. Slope instability mechanisms and stability analyses. Underground excavation instability mechanisms and rock deformation. Geological mass wasting processes.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Written course documentation available under "Kursunterlagen".

Literature

PRINZ, H. & R. Strauss (2006): Abriss der Ingenieurgeologie. - 671 S., 4. Aufl., Elsevier GmbH (Spektrum Verlag). CADUTO, D.C. (1999): Geotechnical Engineering, Principles and Practices. 759 S., 1. Aufl., (Prentice Hall) LANG, H.-J., HUDER, J. & AMMAN, P. (1996): Bodenmechanik und Grundbau. Das Verhalten von Böden und die wichtigsten grundbaulichen Konzepte. - 320 S., 5.Aufl., Berlin, Heidelberg etc. (Springer). HOEK, E. (2007): Practical Rock Engineering - Course Notes. http://www.rocscience.com/hoek/PracticalRockEngineering.asp HUDSON, J.A. & HARRISON, J.P. (1997): Engineering Rock Mechanics. An Introduction to the Principles. - 444 S. (Pergamon).

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Erfolgreich gelöste und termingerecht abgegebene Übungen (Lernelemente) führen zu einer Erhöhung der Gesamtnote der Lerneinheit von maximal 0.25 Notenpunkten. Die Maximalnote 6 für die Lerneinheit kann auch erreicht werden, wenn nur die Semesterendprüfung absolviert wird. Die Teilnahme an den Lernelementen (Übungen) wird sehr empfohlen.

Registration & Places

Max Places
60

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Ingenieurgeologie
  • Mon 14:15-16:00 (CAB G 11)
2 h weekly
exercise Ingenieurgeologie
Groups are selected in myStudies. Die Übungen finden in zwei Gruppen statt, jeweils eine Stunde (12-13 oder 13-14).
  • Tue 12:15-13:00 (CHN F 46)
  • Tue 13:15-14:00 (CHN F 46)
1 h weekly

Offered In