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101-0359-00L 3 Credits MSC D-BAUG
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Physical Modelling in Geotechnics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Sarah M. Springman, Dr. Jan Laue
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:13:44

Abstract

Aspects of both physical and numerical modelling in geotechnical engineering: appreciation of typical mechanisms pertaining to ultimate & serviceability limit state; influence on resulting design methods

Objective

Leading to an appreciation of the typical mechanisms pertaining to ultimate & serviceability limit state Influence on resulting design methods

Content

Principles of modelling: Centrifuge (physics, scaling laws, errors), numerical (finite elements, finite difference) Experimental methods: Geotechnical (sand/clay model making, site investigation), mechanical (packages, actuators), electronic (data acquisition) Application of physical modelling and numerical methods for typical geotechnical problems: review of mechanisms observed, comparison between modelling, numerical and/or classical plasticity methods, implications for design From:- Foundations (shallow and deep), bridge abutments, reinforced soils, soil nailing & anchorages, tunnels & deep excavations, earthquake effects, dynamic problems, environmental geomechanics, transport processes, dams, embankments & slopes, cold regions engineering

Resources

Lecture Notes

Handout notes,Example worksheets

Literature

- Taylor, R.N. (Ed) (1995): Geotechnical centrifuge technology, Blackie Academic & Professional, London. - Craig, W.H.; James, R.G.; Schofield, A.N. (Eds) (1998): Centrifuges in soil mechanics, Balkema, Rotterdam. - Britto, A.M.; Gunn, M. (1987): Finite elements with critical state soil mechanics, Ellis Horwood, London. - Springman, S.M. (Ed.) (2002): Constitutive & Centrifuge Modelling: Two Extremes, Swets & Zeitlinger, Lisse, The Netherlands.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Physical Modelling in Geotechnics
  • Wed 09:45-11:30 (HIL E 7)
2 h weekly

Offered In