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651-4065-00L 3 Credits MSC D-ERDW
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Geological Site Investigations

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Martin Ziegler, PD Dr. Andrea Manconi
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:16:19

Abstract

This course introduces students to the methods used in characterising, developing or monitoring geotechnical engineering project sites. Measurements, tools and analyses are described that are relevant to determining the geologic conditions at a site as well as deformations that occur under natural or construction conditions.

Objective

This course aims at introducing the general procedures taken during an engineering geological site investigation. Students who complete the course should be able to design a site investigation program of measurements based on information from initial desk studies, and to analyse, integrate and interpret data from the measurement program.

Content

The methods that are routinely employed in site investigations will be described focusing on their applicability in different geologic environments. The limitations of the data in constraining the parameters of interest will be addressed together with problems of interpretation and cost-versus-information value. Specific topics addressed include drilling, coring, sampling, borehole testing, geophysical methods used in engineering geology, satellite, air- and ground-based surface and displacement monitoring (photogrammetry, LIDAR and Radar), and in-situ deformation measurement methods.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes will be available for download 1-2 days before each class.

Literature

Hunt, R.E (2005): Geotechnical Engineering Investigation Handbook. Taylor & Francis Co. CRC Press. Online (ETH): http://www.crcnetbase.com/isbn/978-0-8493-2182-5 Simons, N., Menzies, N. & Matthews, M. (2002): A Short Course in Geotechnical Site Investigations. ICE Publishing. Online (ETH): http://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/content/book/100017 Dunnicliff, J. (1993): Geotechnical instrumentation for monitoring field performance. 577 p., Wiley-Interscience Publishing. Supplemental literature will be suggested and made available during the course.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance
The performance assessments for this course are graded as follows: Exercises (40%), Excursion (10%), written exam (50%). Lecture notes may not be used during the exam.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Geological Site Investigations
Please note room change 20 November and following
  • Mon 10:15-13:00 (CAB G 52)
  • Thu 13:15-16:00 (NO E 11)
3 h weekly

Offered In