48
Geotechnics
REGGIO DI CALABRIA
Overview
Date/time interval
Syllabus
Course Objectives
Knowledge and understanding: The course aims to provide the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary for designing civil and environmental engineering structures using geosynthetics, a family of synthetic and, in some cases, natural materials. In particular, students will acquire knowledge regarding the different types of geosynthetics, their physical properties, their mechanical and hydraulic characteristics, and the primary engineering functions they perform.
Applying knowledge and understanding: Students will acquire competence in selecting and utilizing different types of geosynthetics in relation to their main applications, as well as in applying dimensioning criteria. By the end of the course, they will be able to develop simple geotechnical designs incorporating geosynthetics, perform the relevant design calculations, and apply these solutions in real-world contexts.
Making judgments: Students will be able to critically evaluate the adopted design solutions, interpret laboratory test results, and consider durability and environmental compatibility aspects when choosing materials and techniques.
Communication skills: Students will acquire the ability to present the course contents clearly and rigorously, using appropriate technical language and justifying their design choices.
Learning skills: Students will develop the ability to independently deepen their knowledge of the topics covered, including through the consultation of technical regulations and scientific publications, and to keep themselves updated with innovations in the field.
Course Prerequisites
No prerequisites are required.
Teaching Methods
The course features lectures that introduce theoretical principles and illustrate real-world application cases, paired with design practicals that guide students through the application of dimensioning criteria and material selection.
Teaching activities are integrated with technical-regulatory documentation and specific scientific publications, supporting students in developing independent judgment and critical thinking skills.
An adequate amount of independent study is required, aimed at consolidating the topics covered during lectures and deepening the understanding of their practical applications.
Assessment Methods
Learning assessment is verified through a final oral examination consisting of an interview structured around multiple questions regarding the course topics. The exam aims to assess the acquired knowledge, application skills, independent judgment, and clarity of expression, in line with the course's educational objectives.
The final grade is expressed out of thirty (30/30) and is calculated as the average of the scores assigned to each question posed to the student, taking into account the level of achievement of the various learning outcomes (knowledge and understanding, applying knowledge and understanding, making judgments, and communication skills). Assessment is based on the following performance levels:
30-30 cum laude (excellent): The student demonstrates detailed knowledge of the subject, uses correct terminology, identifies and explains the main concepts, integrates personal insights into their summary, and develops cross-disciplinary connections. Understanding is excellent and application skills are well-established; the delivery is clear, logical, and well-structured.
28-29 (very good): The student shows a good command of the relevant contents, uses correct terminology, and explains most of the main concepts. Understanding is solid, with very good application and analytical skills; the delivery is clear, organized, and logical, with minor inaccuracies.
25-27 (good): The student is familiar with most of the course content, although they do not always explain it fully; they use terminology adequately and identify key concepts. Understanding is adequate and application skills are good; the delivery is clear, but not always complete or linear.
22-24 (satisfactory): The student possesses an acceptable knowledge of the subject, with some gaps; they distinguish key points but may encounter some difficulties in contextualizing them. The delivery is correct but may be schematic or fragmented, and application skills are satisfactory.
18-21 (sufficient): The student shows limited knowledge, with difficulties in integrating concepts and using correct terminology. Understanding is sufficient but superficial; application skills are basic, and the delivery may be unclear or repetitive.
Fail (insufficient): The student does not possess the essential knowledge, fails to distinguish key concepts, and shows serious errors in understanding. Application skills are absent or inadequate, and the delivery does not meet acceptable standards.
Texts
- Powerpoint presentations provided by the teacher;
- 2012 Designing with Geosynthetics - 6Th Edition Vol. 1, KOERNER, XLIBRIS CORPORATION;
- 2012 Designing with Geosynthetics - 6Th Edition; Vol. 2, KOERNER, XLIBRIS CORPORATION.
Contents
The course explores the fundamental principles of geosynthetic engineering, a field widely utilized today to enhance the performance and sustainability of geotechnical structures.
Firstly, the course analyzes the various types of geosynthetics, including geotextiles, geogrids, geomats, geomembranes, geocells, and geocomposites. Particular emphasis is placed on the raw materials used in their manufacturing (synthetic polymers and natural fibers) and the main structural differences between the distinct categories.
The course then delves into the specific functions these materials perform in civil and environmental engineering projects, such as filtration, drainage, reinforcement, mechanical protection, fluid barrier, erosion control, and separation, illustrating these concepts with application examples and practical case studies.
A significant portion of the course is dedicated to the technical characterization of geosynthetics. This includes determining their physical properties, mechanical features, and hydraulic characteristics through standardized laboratory testing and methodologies, alongside studying the interaction between geosynthetics and soil.
Furthermore, topics related to material durability over time are addressed, which represents a crucial aspect of long-term design.
Finally, the course provides the design principles for integrating geosynthetics into geotechnical works, offering specific dimensioning criteria for each function. Attention is focused on solutions that combine technical effectiveness with environmental compatibility, highlighting how the use of geosynthetics can reduce the environmental impact of infrastructure and promote sustainable development.
More information
All relevant information has already been provided in the previous sections