Course content

The course focuses on application of the finite element method to solve problems in geotechnics / porous media deformations - flow (of water) and connected problems (consolidation). The course provides an introduction on how to find analytical solutions for failure capacity from plasticity theory (plastic stress fields, basic elements and combinations of these). The course provides the basis for describing material behavior with elasticity and elastoplasticity as a framework (Tresca, Coulomb).

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

The candidate must have knowledge of:

• Soil strength expressed by total and effective stresses
• Stress fields based on the plasticity theory
• Constitutive relations for soil behavior (stiffness and conductivity)
• Key finite element method concepts applied to porous media (soil)
• Deformation of soil.
• Flow in soil, including coupled problems

Skills:

The candidate can:

• Calculate the capacity of simple problem based on plasticity theory
• Use Python to implement a solution for simple problems with the finite element method
• Use analytical solutions to check well-defined numerical analyzes

General competence:

The candidate can:

• The basis of the finite element method for multiphysics problems for porous media (soil)
• The calculation process in finite element calculations

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, assignments with supervision.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Recommended previous knowledge

Structural mechanics, mathematics and some basis in geotechnical engineering.

Required previous knowledge

TMA4125/TMA4130 Mathematics 4N and TKT4132 Mechanics 3 or equivalent.

Course materials

Lecture notes provided by the geotechnical group at NTNU.