May 17, 2024  
2024-2025 Undergraduate Academic Catalog 
    
2024-2025 Undergraduate Academic Catalog
Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)

ARE 4321 - Soil Mechanics and Foundations

3 lecture hours 0 lab hours 3 credits
Course Description
This course provides a basic understanding of the interaction between soil conditions and the design of the foundation system. Methods of soil testing and site investigation are described and analysis of data is performed. Topics include soil types and classifications, physical properties, subsoil stresses, shear strength, bearing capacity, settlement, consolidation, and lateral earth pressure. Foundation design topics include load transfer through the structural system, shallow and deep foundation types, design of foundation size, shape, and reinforcement. Also included is pedestal, baseplate, and anchor rod design. (prereq: CAE 3511 , CAE 3521 ) (quarter system prereq: AE 3211, AE 323)
Note: Not for credit for students who have credit in CVE 3301 or CV 3500.
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Identify and classify soil types
  • Describe the tests required for soil analysis and classification
  • Calculate soil properties and apply them to foundation design
  • Design isolated spread footings, combined footings, and wall footings
  • Design anchor bolts and base plates
  • Calculate lateral earth pressures and apply them to retaining wall design
  • Design cantilever retaining walls
  • Design deep foundations

Prerequisites by Topic
  • None

Course Topics
  • Soil properties
  • Soil classification
  • Groundwater/hydraulic conductivity/seepage
  • Bearing capacity
  • Settlement
  • Lateral earth pressure
  • Shallow foundation design
  • Anchor bolts and base plate design
  • Retaining wall design
  • Deep foundation design
  • Subsurface exploration and field testing
  • Geotechnical risk and liability

Coordinator
Dr. Salah Sarhat



Add to Portfolio (opens a new window)