Y10

The main purpose of the course is for students to acquire, to a satisfactory extent and degree, knowledge related to the three subjects mentioned in the course title.

The objectives of the course include a detailed presentation of the type and form of foundations, the monitoring of their evolution over time and, above all, an in-depth study of the correlation between the observed failures and the various causes in relation to and with the characteristics of the structure. Finally, an attempt will be made to link and synthesise the issues relating to foundations with other architectural subjects.

The following subjects will be developed in the courses:

History, arrangement and types of foundations in different periods of time and for different types of monuments and ground conditions (e.g. building projects, temples, bridges, structures at sea, towers and other fortifications, aqueducts, roads etc. technical works).

Geotechnical pathology (failures due to movement of foundations and soil). The general importance of the subject. Reference to the elements and parameters that affect and must be studied (history, foundation soil, type of structure and static function, measurements of the magnitude, rate and characteristics of movements). Methodology and practice of synthesis, evaluation and interpretation of data with the ultimate aim of reliable diagnosis. Presentation of some characteristic failure modes and cause categories.

Criteria and rules for assessing the need for fixation.

Methods and techniques for strengthening foundations. Old and new techniques (micro piles, soil piles, etc.).

Basic Bibliography

1. Lizzi, F., The Static Restoration of Buildings (Basic criteria – Case Histories), Sαger Publisher, 1981.