VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Physical Modelling in Geotechnics
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:24:03
Abstract
Aspects of both physical modelling in geotechnical engineering complemented by application of numerical modelling: 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) Experimental methods: Geotechnical (sand/clay model making, site investigation), mechanical (packages, actuators), electronic (data acquisition) Application of physical modelling for typical geotechnical problems, validated or claibrated by finite element analysis (learnt amd applied in earlier course): 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 worksheetshttp://geotip.igt.ethz.ch
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 |
|
2 h weekly |