FACULTY OF ENGINEERING

MODULE DESCRIPTION FORM

CL922 Soil Modelling and Numerical Analysis

Module Code: CL922 Module Title: Soil Modelling and

Numerical Analysis
Module Registrar: Dr Minna Karstunen

Other Lecturers Involved: Credit Weighting: 20 Semester: 2

Industry lecture by Buro Happold

Compulsory/optional/elective class: Compulsory Academic Level: 5

Prerequisites:

Module Format and Delivery (hours):

Lecture Tutorial Assignments Laboratories Private Study Total

33 0 60 14 93 200

General Aim
The course aims to give a comprehensive understanding of the role of soil modelling and numerical analysis in
practical geotechnical context. The focus is on the selection of appropriate soil model considering a particular
application and information available, interpretation of values for soil parameters for numerical analysis,
idealisation and modelling of the problem with 2D finite element code PLAXIS, and appreciation of the
limitations of finite element modelling. At the end of the course the students will be competent (but not experts)
on finite element modelling and its opportunities and limitations.

Specific (Learning) Objectives

 Comprehensive understanding of the role of soil modelling and numerical analysis in practical geotechnical
context.
 Comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of soil modelling, from linear elastic models and Mohr
Coulomb to advanced soil models, such as critical state models, creep models and small strain stiffness
models.
 Interpretation of values for soil parameters for numerical analysis in the context of a given soil model and
geotechnical problem.
 Idealisation and modelling of geotechnical problems with 2D finite element code PLAXIS.
 Appreciation of the limitations of finite element modelling.

Syllabus
Week 1: Introduction: Simple methods, closed form solutions and numerical modelling (FEM, FD, BEM, DEM,
MPM etc.). Finite method for linear problems. Introduction to PLAXIS finite element code.
Week 2: Linear elasticity and perfect plasticity. Computer lab 1: Soil testing tool (Mohr-Coulomb)
Week 3: Non-linear finite elements and solutions techniques. Applied theory: shallow foundations.
Week 4: Structural elements and interfaces. Computer lab 2: Shallow foundation.
Week 5: Drained/undrained analysis. Consolidation.
Week 6: Slope stability and phi-c reduction. Computer lab 3: Consolidation and phi-c reduction.
Week 7: Applied theory: Soil parameters for drained and undrained analysis. Critical state models.
Week 8: Applied theory: Analysis of an embankment. Computer lab 4: Analysis of an embankment (inc.
stability)
Week 9: Hardening Soil double hardening model and small strain stiffness. Computer lab 5: Boston
embankment (I)
Week 10: Creep models, anisotropy and bonding. Computer lab 6: Excavation in Limburg
Week 11: Applied theory: Analysis of Ground improvement. Computer lab 7: Boston embankment (II)
Week 12: Industry lecture by Buro Happold. Revision
Coursework 1: Mesh sensitivity and convergence studies (20%)
Coursework 2: Independent FE analysis of a problem found in literature (40%)

Assessment Method(s) Including Percentage Breakdown and Duration of Exams

Examinations Courseworks Projects

Number Duration Max Number Max Number Max
Marks Marks Marks
1 3 hrs 40% 2 60%
(open
book)

Main Text Books

Comprehensive lecture notes and further reading materials, including research papers, available via
LearnOnline.

Recommended reading:
Muir Wood, D. Geotechnical Modelling. Spon Press, 2004.
Potts, D. & Zdravkovic L. Finite element analysis in geotechnical engineering- Theory. Thomas Telford,1999.
Potts, D. & Zdravkovic L. Finite element analysis in geotechnical engineering- Application. Thomas
Telford,1999.
Potts, D., Axelsson K., Grande, L. Schweiger, H. & Long, M. Guidelines for the use of advanced numerical
analysis. Thomas Telford, 2002.
Azizi, F. Applied analysis in geotechnics. E & F. Spon, 2000.
Muir Wood, D. Soil behaviour and critical state soil mechanics. Cambridge University Press,1990.

Date of Last Modifications: October 2009

Level of Achievement
Statement for a JBM
Accredited Engineering
Module
Level in Degree Programme
(years 1 to 5)
:5
UK
EC Level (Levels 6 or 7
appropriate to years 4 and
5 resp.) : 7
GENERAL LEARNING OUTCOMES
Knowledge and Understanding
Intellectual Abilities
Practical Skills
General Transferable Skills
SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES IN ENGINEERING
Underpinning Science and
Mathematics
Engineering Analysis
Economic, Social and
Environmental Context
Design
Engineering Practice
Module Code: CL923 Soil University of Strathclyde,
Modelling and Numerical Department of Civil
Analysis Engineering
Module Objectives and/or Principal Evidence of Achievement
Outcomes in Support of the Level (e.g. examination script,
design report, dissertation,
lab. report, etc.)
Comprehensive understanding of the Examination (40%)
role of soil modelling and numerical
analysis in practical geotechnical
context.
Appreciation of the limitations of finite
element modelling
Comprehensive understanding of the Examination (40%)
fundamentals of soil modelling, from
linear elastic models and Mohr
Coulomb to advanced soil models,
such as critical state models, creep
models and small strain stiffness
models.
Interpretation of values for soil Coursework (60%), Exam
parameters for numerical analysis in (40%)
the context of a given soil model and
geotechnical problem.
Idealisation and modelling of
geotechnical problems with 2D finite
element code PLAXIS.
Research methods, report writing. Coursework (60%)
Finite element method for linear and Coursework (60%), Exam
non-linear problems. (40%)
Develop an awareness of the use of Coursework (60%), Exam
parametric studies in analysis and the (40%)
requirement to justify
conclusions/recommendations.
Finite elements and geotechnical risk Exam (40%)
Ability to follow and interpret a design Project report (80%)
brief. To optimise design solutions in
accordance with the design brief and
so develop good design methodology.
Develop an understanding of how Coursework (60%), Exam
finite elements can be applied to (40%)
engineering practice.