This module is concerned with the structure of the earth, the materials from which it is formed and the processes which have shaped it. Knowledge of these basic principles is important in order to explain how the earth, the movements of the earth’s crust and geological processes, impact on engineering structures and have an influence on both Structural and Civil engineering design. The importance of evidence in geology is also emphasized.
The module introduces the student to basic geological principles and features and to emphasize their importance for the design of structures and civil engineering projects. Students will be introduced to the concept of sustainability with particular focus on climate change and the need to consider both the linear life cycle (take-make-waste) and circular life cycles of commonly used engineering materials.
Introduction: The importance of Geology and Earth Science to Structural and Civil Engineers. How structures interact with the earth.
Structure of the Earth: Plate tectonics. Evidence and causes of movement. Different types of plate boundary.
The Rock Cycle: Main characteristics and processes that lead to the formation of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. Occurrence of the major rock types in Ireland.
Geological Processes. Glaciation. Erosion, including coastal erosion - and its impact in Ireland. Coastal protection structures and methods.
Geological Structures. Stresses in Rocks. Types of Faults (normal, reverse, thrust, strike-slip). Measurement of geological structures (strike and dip).
Earthquakes: Causes and measurement earthquakes. Forecasting earthquakes and measuring impacts.
Hydrological Cycle: Drainage basins and patterns. Stream erosion and deposition. Flooding.
Earth as a System: Constituents of the Earth System. Causes of climate change. Modelling the Earth System. Role of humans in the earth system.
Geologic Resources: Metal deposits. Industrial minerals. Fossil Fuels. Linear and circular life cycles of common engineering materials.
Lectures, assignments and group project work.
The assignments and project work are designed to consolidate topics covered in lectures through the use
of
(i) Research and gathering of information on geological topics of relevance to Civil and Structural Engineering. Students will be required to analyse and summarise this information, and then present findings in the form of reports and presentations (LOs 1,2,5 and 6).
(ii) Calculations and graphs (LOs 3,4)
There will be a two hour lecture per week.
The project work will require a significant amount of self-directed learning on behalf of the student.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 50 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |