View Important Policies and System Requirements for this course
Interested in registering 5 or more engineers for a course? Contact us for information and rates.
INSTRUCTORS:
Matthew O. Sonibare
Sultan Almuaythir
Mayalia Guntle, E.I.T., SM.ASCE
Ghada Ellithy, PhD, PE
Hailey-Rae Rose, Ph.D.
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Extreme 2025 conference.
Fracture Angularity Influence on Failure Behavior of Grouted Rocks for Geohazard Mitigation (10 minutes)
This presentation investigates how fracture angularity influences the mechanical behavior and failure modes of grouted rock masses used in geohazard mitigation. Laboratory experiments examine grouted specimens with varying fracture geometries to evaluate strength, stiffness, and crack propagation patterns. Results demonstrate that angular fractures significantly affect stress distribution and bonding performance between grout and rock surfaces. The study highlights differences in failure behavior under compressive loading, including sliding, tensile cracking, and grout debonding. These findings provide insight into the role of fracture geometry in the effectiveness of grouting as a stabilization technique. Practical implications for grout design and application in fractured rock environments are discussed.
Performance Assessment and Numerical Simulation of Geo-Materials in Civil Infrastructure Under Extreme Loading Conditions (10 minutes)
This presentation focuses on evaluating the performance of geo-materials subjected to extreme loading conditions commonly encountered during earthquakes, impacts, or blast events. Experimental data are combined with advanced numerical simulations to capture nonlinear material behavior, damage evolution, and failure thresholds. The modeling framework allows for comparison between predicted and observed responses of soils and rock-based materials under high strain rates. Results highlight the sensitivity of geo-material performance to loading intensity, confinement, and material heterogeneity. The presentation demonstrates how validated numerical models can improve the reliability of infrastructure design under extreme scenarios. Applications to critical civil infrastructure systems are emphasized.
Role of Frequency on the Cyclic Compression Response of Tire-Derived Aggregate (11 minutes)
This presentation examines the influence of loading frequency on the cyclic compression behavior of tire-derived aggregate (TDA), a recycled material increasingly used in geotechnical applications. Laboratory cyclic compression tests are conducted over a range of frequencies to assess stiffness, energy dissipation, and permanent deformation. Results show that frequency significantly affects the viscoelastic response and damping characteristics of TDA. Higher frequencies are associated with increased stiffness and reduced accumulated strain. The findings provide guidance for the use of TDA in applications subject to dynamic loads, such as transportation infrastructure and vibration isolation systems. The study supports the sustainable reuse of waste materials in civil engineering.
Considerations of Undrained Behavior of Compacted Clay Embankments Under Extreme Wetting- Drying Cycles (15 minutes)
This presentation explores the undrained mechanical behavior of compacted clay embankments exposed to repeated extreme wetting–drying cycles. Laboratory testing evaluates changes in pore water pressure response, shear strength, and stiffness following environmental cycling. Results indicate that moisture variation significantly alters the undrained response, potentially increasing susceptibility to instability during rapid loading events. The study highlights the role of soil structure degradation and fabric changes caused by cyclic moisture exposure. Implications for embankment design, maintenance, and long-term performance under climate variability are discussed. Recommendations are provided for incorporating environmental effects into stability assessments.
Analytical Method for Assessing Buried Pipeline Performance Under Large Ground Movements (13 minutes)
This presentation presents an analytical method for evaluating the structural performance of buried pipelines subjected to large ground movements caused by landslides, fault rupture, or soil liquefaction. The method integrates soil–pipe interaction mechanisms with pipeline material properties to estimate deformation and stress demands. Analytical results are compared with numerical simulations and case histories to demonstrate applicability and accuracy. The approach allows engineers to rapidly assess pipeline vulnerability under permanent ground deformation scenarios. Design considerations for improving pipeline resilience are discussed, including flexibility, alignment, and burial conditions. The method provides a practical tool for risk-informed infrastructure planning.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of these sessions, you will be able to:
- Explain how fracture angularity affects failure mechanisms in grouted rock systems used for geohazard mitigation.
- Describe how numerical simulations are used to assess geo-material performance under extreme loading conditions.
- Identify the effect of loading frequency on the cyclic compression response of tire-derived aggregate.
- Discuss how extreme wetting–drying cycles influence the undrained behavior of compacted clay embankments.
- List key factors considered in analytical assessment of buried pipeline performance under large ground movements.
Assessment of Learning Outcomes
Students' achievement of the learning outcomes will be assessed via a short post-test assessment (true-false, multiple choice, and/or fill in the blank questions).
Who Should Attend?
- Geotechnical Engineers
- Structural Engineers
- Civil Infrastructure Designers
- Researchers and Academics
- Risk and Resilience Analysts
- Construction and Project Managers
How to Earn your CEUs/PDHs and Receive Your Certificate of Completion
To receive your certificate of completion, you will need to complete a short post-test online and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 1 year of purchasing the course.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]