Course Catalogue.

After participating in this course, you will be able to:

• Analyze soil mechanics principles to identify potential issues and challenges.
• Select appropriate subsurface exploration methods and laboratory tests.
• Assess construction practices with a focus on geotechnical considerations.
• Enhance project outcomes by applying advanced knowledge of slope stability, pavement sub-grades, and retaining walls.
• Implement effective solutions for earthworks and foundation challenges in engineering projects.

Description
Understanding soil behavior is crucial for engineers involved in construction, as it significantly impacts project safety and success. Soil mechanics directly influences the design and stability of structures, making it vital for engineers to have foundational knowledge in this area. While deep expertise in geotechnical engineering might not be necessary for every professional, having a solid grasp of basic soil mechanics is essential. This course provides non-geotechnical engineers with the knowledge needed to handle subsoil-related challenges confidently in their projects.

Participants will delve into essential principles, from soil mechanics to slope stability, and learn how to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios. By exploring case studies and practical applications, you will gain a clearer understanding of how soil behavior influences construction practices and what steps can be taken to mitigate risks.

By the end of the course, you'll be equipped with the skills to make informed decisions on your projects and ensure the integrity of foundations and earthworks. The course also offers insights into the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering, making it a valuable experience for anyone looking to enhance their expertise in this field.

Who Should Attend
This course is ideal for Civil and Structural Engineers, Designers, and Construction Engineers who are looking to deepen their understanding of soil mechanics and improve project outcomes. Construction Managers, Project Engineers, and Engineering Managers will also benefit from the insights provided, particularly those involved in projects with complex subsoil conditions. Additionally, Technologists, Technicians, and General Contractors who seek to enhance their technical expertise and practical knowledge in geotechnical aspects of construction will find this course invaluable.

Whether you're responsible for designing, managing, or constructing projects, this course will provide you with the essential knowledge to address soil-related challenges effectively. It’s particularly relevant for professionals who frequently engage with earthworks, foundation design, and construction practices involving subsoil conditions.

Course Syllabus

Day I: Soils Mechanics: Fundamentals

Welcome, Introduction, Workshop Preview, Learning Outcomes and the Assessment Method

Basic Soil Mechanics Concepts

• Nature of soil, grain size distributions
• Soil composition
• Soil classification
• Stresses in soils
• Total and effective stresses
• Load distribution

Water in Soils: Permeability and Seepage

• Groundwater flow in soils
• Estimating the rate of flow
• Effective drainage and the use of filters
• Flow control

Stress in Soil and Soil Settlement:

• Stress in soil: effective stress, consequences of change in effective stress
• Consolidation: time dependency, Oedometer tests, settlement calculations, effects of over consolidation

Shear Strength of soils

• Measurement of soil strength
• Drained and undrained deformation
• Strength anisotropy
• Mohr-coulomb failure criteria, ‘Clays’ vs ‘Sands’

Day II: Geotechnical Engineering: Applications

Subsurface Investigations

• Scope of work
• Available information and objectives
• Planning and methods of investigations: SPT, CPT and VST
• Understanding and interpreting geotechnical reports

Foundations

• Limit states
• Shallow foundations: bearing capacity, settlement and design considerations, introduction to deep foundations

Stability of Earth Slopes

• Slope failure types and causes
• Determination of slope safety
• Limit equilibrium analysis methods and computer software
• Groundwater effects
• Slope stabilization techniques

Questions and Answers and Feedback to Participants on Achievement of Learning Outcomes

Concluding Remarks and Final Adjournment