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INSTRUCTORS:
EunSik Choi
Mary MacLaughlin
Andrew Russel
Daniel Hutabarat
Besrat E. Alemu
Course Length: 1 hour
Purpose and Background
These presentations were recorded at the Geo-Congress 2026.
Rockfall Hazard Assessment in Pennsylvania through Coupled Monitoring and Modeling (9 minutes)
This presentation focuses on assessing rockfall hazards in Pennsylvania using a combination of field monitoring and numerical modeling. Rockfalls pose significant risks to transportation corridors and public safety, especially in mountainous regions. The study integrates monitoring technologies such as sensors and remote data collection with predictive modeling tools. This coupled approach improves the accuracy of hazard identification and risk prediction. Results demonstrate how real-time data enhances model calibration and reliability. The presentation also discusses mitigation strategies based on risk levels. Overall, the approach supports more proactive and data-driven hazard management.
Characterizing the At-Rest Lateral Stress Coefficient in South Carolina Coastal Plain Quatemary Sands (15 minutes)
This presentation examines the at-rest lateral stress coefficient (K0) in South Carolina Coastal Plain Quaternary sands. K0 is a critical parameter for evaluating lateral earth pressures in geotechnical design. The study uses field and laboratory data to better characterize K0 values for these specific soil conditions. Variability in soil deposition and stress history significantly influences K0. The research highlights differences between empirical estimates and measured values. Findings provide improved guidance for design in coastal plain environments. This contributes to safer and more accurate geotechnical analyses.
Recommendations for Selecting an Optimal Rock Joint Direct Shear Test Proced (13 minutes)
This presentation provides recommendations for selecting optimal procedures for rock joint direct shear testing. Rock joint behavior significantly influences slope stability and rock mass performance. The study reviews various testing methods and their limitations. Factors such as sample preparation, loading conditions, and test configuration are evaluated. The presentation emphasizes the importance of standardization for reliable results. Comparative analysis highlights how procedural differences impact shear strength measurements. The recommendations aim to improve consistency and accuracy in rock mechanics testing.
Seismic Performance of Unreinforced and Fiber-Reinforced Rigid Inclusions in Soft Soil Site (17 minutes)
This presentation evaluates the seismic performance of unreinforced and fiber-reinforced rigid inclusions in soft soil sites. Rigid inclusions are used to improve ground stability and reduce settlement. The study compares performance under seismic loading conditions. Fiber reinforcement is introduced to enhance ductility and energy dissipation. Numerical and experimental analyses assess deformation and load transfer. Results show improved performance with reinforced inclusions. The findings support more resilient ground improvement strategies in seismic regions.
Evaluation of New and Existing Shear Modulus Reduction Models to Predict Measured In-Situ G/Gmax in Transitional Silts (12 minutes)
This presentation evaluates new and existing shear modulus reduction models used to predict in-situ G/Gmax behavior in transitional silts. Shear modulus reduction is essential for understanding soil response under cyclic loading. Transitional silts exhibit complex behavior between sand and clay characteristics. The study compares model predictions with field measurements. Results highlight discrepancies and identify models that best match observed data. The importance of accurate modeling for seismic and dynamic analysis is emphasized. These findings improve the reliability of geotechnical design in challenging soil conditions.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Explain how coupled monitoring and modeling improve rockfall hazard assessment.
- Describe the factors influencing the at-rest lateral stress coefficient in coastal sands.
- Identify appropriate procedures for conducting rock joint direct shear tests.
- Discuss the seismic behavior of reinforced and unreinforced rigid inclusions in soft soils.
- Explain how shear modulus reduction models are used to predict in-situ soil behavior.
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]