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Introduction to Engineering Geology
Ingenieurgeologie
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:06:20
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
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). HUDSON, J.A. & HARRISON, J.P. (1997): Engineering Rock Mechanics. An Introduction to the Principles. - 444 S. (Pergamon). PRINZ, H. (1997): Abriß der Ingenieurgeologie, mit Grundlagen der Boden- und Felsmechanik, des Erd-, Grund- und Tunnelbaus sowie der Abfalldeponien. - 546 S., 3. Aufl., Stuttgart (Enke).
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , DS , MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Ingenieurgeologie |
|
3 h weekly |
Offered In
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Advanced Studies (These courses normally have to be attended in the 5th or the 7th semester. The complementary courses are sumarized at the end.)
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Earth Sciences Bachelor (Information on the Bachelor: )
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Major in Geology: Core Courses (From the list of core courses offered in winter and summer semester 26 credit points must be aquired.)
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Major in Geology: Electives (From the offered elective courses in spring and fall term 9 credits must be acquired. Primarily courses from the core courses of BSc Earth Sciences have to be selected. Other elective courses from the ETH and University of Zurich are possible, however they must be granted by the advisor of geology (Professor W. Winkler). Courses of the paleontology of the University of Zurich (further offer under ): The following courses from the offer of the UZH are available:)
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Major in Geophysics: Core Courses (From the list of core courses offered in winter and summer semester 26 credit points must be aquired.)
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Major in Geophysics: Electives (From the offered credit points in the winter and summer semester 15 KP have to be aquired. In the winter semester primary courses from the list of core courses from the BSc Earth Science should be chosen. Other courses from the entire choice of ETH and UZH courses are possible, however must be approved by the Fachberater Geophysics (Prof. E. Kissling).)
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