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INSTRUCTORS:
Fereydoun Jazi
Alireza Fakhrabodi
Calvin Tohm
Lea Eggensberger
Course Length: 1 hour
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Congress 2026.
Numerical Analysis of Thermo-Hydro-Mechanical Behavior of Expansive Soils Close to the Geothermal Energy Systems (15 minutes)
This presentation explores the complex interactions between thermal, hydraulic, and mechanical processes in expansive soils surrounding geothermal energy systems. A coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) numerical model was developed to simulate temperature changes, moisture migration, and soil deformation near geothermal piles. The study highlights how heat injection causes moisture redistribution, leading to drying near the heat source and increased moisture further away. These changes significantly influence soil behavior, particularly in highly expansive clays such as bentonite. Model validation was performed using laboratory experiments before applying long-term simulations over a 10-year period. Results show progressive and uneven deformation, including shrinkage near the heat source and swelling at greater distances. The findings provide important insights for the design and performance of geothermal foundation systems in expansive soils.
Scenario-based Field-scale Evaluation of Thermal Performance of Ground Heat Exchangers (14 minutes)
This presentation evaluates the field-scale thermal performance of ground heat exchangers (GHEs) used in geothermal systems for bridge de-icing applications. The study focuses on long-term monitoring of fluid flow rates, temperature variations, and system efficiency under different operational scenarios. A full-scale system installed in Texas includes multiple boreholes, geothermal heat pumps, and a closed-loop circulation system. Experimental data were collected using flow meters, thermistors, and soil instrumentation to assess energy extraction and system behavior. Results show that operational modes significantly influence flow distribution and thermal performance. The coefficient of performance (COP) reached values above 5 under optimal conditions. The findings provide practical insights into optimizing geothermal systems for infrastructure applications.
Impact of Atmospheric Conditions on the Erosion Potential of Burned Soil (9 minutes)
This presentation investigates how atmospheric conditions during wildfires influence the erosion potential of burned soils. The study focuses on the heat-treated soil layer beneath hydrophobic zones, where erosion behavior is less understood. Laboratory experiments simulated different atmospheric environments, including oxygen-rich and nitrogen-rich conditions, at high temperatures. Results showed that heat treatment generally reduces soil erodibility due to chemical stabilization processes. However, atmospheric composition significantly affects soil structure and erosion resistance. Material density and moisture content were identified as key controlling factors. The findings improve understanding of post-wildfire erosion risks and contribute to better hazard mitigation strategies.
Pore Pressure Assessment in Sandy Nearshore Sediments during a Large Scale Wave Flume (11 minutes)
This presentation examines pore pressure dynamics in sandy coastal sediments under wave loading conditions using a large-scale wave flume experiment. The study investigates how wave-induced pore pressure gradients can lead to momentary liquefaction, contributing to coastal erosion. Measurements were collected using pore pressure sensors at multiple depths under varying wave conditions. Results show significant attenuation of wave-induced pressure with depth and increased liquefaction potential near the surface. The study also identifies correlations between wave characteristics and pore pressure responses. Findings highlight the importance of including pore pressure effects in coastal erosion models. This research enhances understanding of sediment stability in nearshore environments.
Investigating The Impact of Cold Age Weathering and Temperature on Puncture Resistance of Geomembranes (9 minutes)
This presentation investigates how cold weather conditions and freeze-thaw cycles affect the puncture resistance of geomembranes used in geotechnical applications. A new testing methodology was developed to simulate realistic field conditions using rock-like puncture elements instead of standard metal probes. Various geomembrane types were tested under temperatures ranging from 20°C to -80°C and multiple freeze-thaw cycles. Results indicate a transition from ductile to brittle behavior as temperature decreases. Freeze-thaw cycles influenced strength differently depending on material type and temperature. The study also observed increased delamination failures in colder conditions. These findings help improve testing standards and material selection for cold-region applications.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain the coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical behavior of expansive soils near geothermal energy systems.
- Describe the operational performance and efficiency of ground heat eion potential based on field case histories.
- Discuss how atmospheric conditions during wildfires influence soil erosion potential.>
- Explain the relationship between wave-induced pore pressure and sediment liquefaction in coastal environments.
- Identify the effects of temperature and freeze-thaw cycles on geomembrane puncture resistance.
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 Engineer
- Civil Engineers (Geotechnical/Foundations focus)
- Engineering Geologists
- Infrastructure & Transportation Engineers
- Construction Engineers and Managers
- Researchers, Faculty, and Students in Geotechnics
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 on-line post-test and receive a passing score of 70% or higher within 365 days of the course purchase.
How do I convert CEUs to PDHs?
1.0 CEU = 10 PDHs [Example: 0.1 CEU = 1 PDH]