The aims of the module are:
(1) to provide students with a sound knowledge of the fundamentals of soil mechanics laboratory testing, as a basis for further studies in the area of geotechnical engineering;
(2) to provide students with the technical ability to participate in quality control in earthworks and other associated areas.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
have an understanding of the significance of moisture content in a soil;
LO2
To be able to undertake a soil classification tests and have a basic knowledge of technical report writing.
LO3
be able to classify a soil in accordance with the BS/Eurocode 7 Classification Systems while understanding these are regional codes
LO4
Have a basic knowledge of site investigation stages and techniques;
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
(1) Introduction To Soils Technology (1 hours lectures)
(a) Geological formation of soil and rock - Rock cycle.
(b) Clay and silt minerals.
(2) Site Investigation (6 hours lectures, 4 hours practicals)
(a) Aims and objectives
(b) Desk study
(c) Site reconnaissance
(d) Ground investigation
(3) Classification Of Soils (6 hours lectures, 20 hours practicals)
(4) Strength Of Soil (8 hours lectures, 16 hours practicals)
(a) Shear strength theory
(b) Direct shear test - shear box
(c) Quick undrained triaxial test
(d) Field testing - vane test
(e) California Bearing Ratio
(5) Compaction Of Soil (8 hours lectures, 21 hours practicals)
(a) Optimum Moisture Content
(b) Dry density / moisture content test
(c) Measurement of in-situ density
Typical Laboratory Experiments
(a) Soil sampling & sub-sampling
(b) Classification of a soil
(c) Measurement of Optimum Moisture Content
(d) Measurement of California Bearing Ratio
(e) Measurement of shear strength parameters using shear box
(f) Measurement of shear strength parameters using triaxial apparatus
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
40.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
60.00%
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Other
No Description
1,2,3,4
40.00
n/a
No Project
No Practical
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Formal Exam
No Description
1,2,3,4
60.00
End-of-Semester
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment