This course follows on from Geomechanics 1 and Geomechanics 2. It is intended to provide the basic applications of the principles of geomechanics to problems in Foundation Engineering. It is also aims to provide Foundation Engineering skills for students with an interest in Structural Engineering.
The major topics to be covered in the course are:
• Soil properties relevant to foundation design; site investigation techniques; interpretation of site investigation data
• Limit state design of foundations – ultimate limit state and serviceability limit state
• Ultimate and serviceability limit state approaches for the design of shallow foundations
• Application of these concepts to the design of retaining structures
• Ultimate and serviceability limit state approaches for the design of deep foundations
• Provide some information about current foundation construction techniques
• Consider special aspects of house foundation design and construction.
Visiting speakers may give presentations intended to provide insight into foundation engineering practice (this material will be examinable).