AE2401 Engineering Geology 7.5 credits

Engineering geology is the application of geological knowledge in order to solve problems associated with constructions of different types in different parts of the world.
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Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
The course focuses on rocks properties and interpretation of geological conditions under the ground surface.
By the end of the course the students should:
- be able to construct a map of the surface geology and a cross section of the subsurface geological from drill-hole logs.
- have knowledge of the physical, hydrological, mechanical and chemical properties of common rocks.
- have knowledge of investigation methods, primarily geophysical methods, for determining the rock mass properties underground, their strengths and weaknesses.
- be able to evaluate an area suitability with respect to: (for example)
1. drilling for ground water;
2. opening of a rock quarry based the rock’s suitability for usage in asphalt and concrete;
3. building a land fill that will not negatively affect the groundwater quality or interact negatively with developed areas;
- be able to identify potential problems associated with:
1. slope stability;
2. drilling a tunnel;
3. construction of a dam.
- be able to use a sterionet to analyze slope stability. They should be able to interpret information presented in a sterionet.
Intended learning outcomes
The goal of the course is to increase the student’s knowledge and understanding of geology, and apply this knowledge to engineering projects such as dams, landfills, rock quarries, roads, tunnels and slopes.
Another goal is to increase the students’ presentation skills, both oral and in written.
Course disposition
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
Open to programme students from KTH with at least 180 credits, or other applicants with a bachelor's degree, including at least 6 credits in geosciences. In addition, second cycle courses for at least 30 ECTS credits are required.
Recommended prerequisites
Equipment
Literature
Engineering Geology, Rock in Engineering Construction by Richard E. Goodman, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1993.
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
Examination
- FÄL1 - Exkursion, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
- PRO1 - Project, 2.2 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
- TEN1 - Examination, 2.3 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
- ÖVN1 - Assignments, 1.5 credits, grading scale: P, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
Other requirements for final grade
The grade is based on the reslults in the following 3 parts of the course all of which are graded on a A-F scale.
1. Final test covers the material covered in the exercises; open book test.
2. Course project - written and oral presentation.
There are several field days which are mandatory for completion of the course. If by chance the student cannot attend a field day then an alterntive assignment may be agreed upon.
3. Field exercises, preparation assignments and exercises.
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.
Further information
Course web
Further information about the course can be found on the Course web at the link below. Information on the Course web will later be moved to this site.
Course web AE2401Offered by
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Add-on studies
Supplementary information
Cost of overnight stay at a hostel may apply in connection with field exercises.