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Engineering Geology of Underground Excavations
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:19:13
Abstract
This course deals with the planning of underground excavations; including preliminary field investigations, the development of geological models with embedded geotechnical properties, the description of hydrogeological conditions, the rock mass behavior, the assessment of environmental impacts, and the geological activities during construction.
Objective
In this course the student shall become familiar with the most important tasks an engineering geologist has to carry out in the context of planning and building an underground excavation or tunnel. The student will learn how to integrate the knowledge gained during the fundamental and methods courses for the design and execution of underground constructions.
Content
Major Tasks of Engineering Geologist in Underground Constructions, Logistic Constraints of Various Types Underground Constructions, Ground Behaviour in Underground Constructions (Rock and Soil), Environmental Impacts of Underground Constructions, Exploration Methods and Investigation Phases, Long and Short Term Rock Mass Predictions. Case Study Lötschberg Base Tunnel.
Resources
Literature
Richard Goodman 1993: Engineering Geology, Rock in Engineering Construction, John Whiley and Sons.
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Engineering geology of underground excavations |
|
4 h weekly |