Engineering Geology Design Project

For this component, you will apply the taught theoretical background to the different geological factors that affect design and construction of infrastructural systems and the results from your literature review of reported case studies from component A. You will apply appropriate methods to collect data, present the results and turn this into the design of a project.

You can choose your subject from the areas hydrogeology, fracture/fault analyses for site characterisation, geotechnical investigations to support geothermal energy exploration, assessments of geohazards (e.g. earthquakes, landslides, subsidence), site investigation or rock mass rating for the construction of tunnels, bridges, dams etc. and related subject areas.

Your individual report should be produced for professionals and organisations. You will apply your knowledge of the impact of geological factors to engineering design. The report should contain ideas for future protection measures.

Follow this suggested report structure:

1. Introduction to set the scene and guide the reader to the aim of this report
2. Aim supported by 2 – 3 well defined objectives
3. Context including two sections: a literature review about the theoretic background and an introduction to the study area including the regional geology, environmental factors and land use to be considered
4. Methodology that you have used including the description of the methods and the data/samples used
5. Results of your own assessments and tests
6. Analyses and Design to document the analyses and design performed. If your project includes several components, organise this section according to the components, not the tests performed.
7. Recommendations to give your recommendations organised in section per subject area e.g., one section for rock fall mitigation, on section for slope stability; this of course depends on the aim of and objectives of your project and needs to match with these
8. References following UWE Harvard style

Appendices (these are not included in the word count) containing all additional information, e.g., photos from outcrops, detailed testing results, geological cross sections

This assignment focusses on the following learning outcome:

·         Design basic site investigations and strategies

·         Demonstrate (within context) the design and construction of foundations, earth works and excavations for infrastructures