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101-0317-00L 3 Credits MSC D-BAUG

Underground Construction I

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Alexandros Nordas, Prof. Dr. Linard Cantieni, Dr. Julia Leuthold
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:25

Abstract

The lecture fosters the understanding of basic aspects of design and construction of underground structures. Students gain insight to numerical analysis of underground structures, geotechnical aspects of tunnelling methods and of auxiliary construction measures (grouting, drainage, forepoling and face reinforcement).

Objective

Students are familiar with the finite element method (FEM) and understand the derivation of the relationship between nodal forces and nodal displacements using simple examples. They can solve the most important tunnel boundary value problems with the help of FEM software. The students know the common tunnelling methods as well as support and auxiliary construction measures. Students know the area of application of each method and measure taking into account geological, structural and constructional aspects.

Content

- Fundamentals and applications of numerical methods in tunnel analysis - Conventional tunnelling methods (incl. construction and operational method): full face, top heading and bench, side drift method, … - Auxiliary construction measures: grouting, jet grouting, artificial ground freezing method, water management, pipe umbrella, face bolts

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes

Literature

Recommendations

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 25 minutes
The in-depth study of numerical tunnel analysis as part of an exercise (group work) is a compulsory element of this course. The compulsory performance element must be passed on its own. It is graded as ‘pass’/‘fail’. Sufficient completion and timely submission is a prerequisite for passing compulsory element (if the student does not deregister from the examination, the failed exercise will be counted as an examination cancellation). Attendance is not required for the exercise. If the performance element has already been successfully completed in a previous semester, it does not have to be repeated. The session examination consists of an oral part and a ten-minute written part. The overall grade for the course is calculated as follows: oral exam (1/2), written exam (1/2).

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Underground Construction I No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In