Course Code: CP106

Microcredential Course

Course Introduction

The programme aims at introducing students with different commonly used geophysical methods and in-situ testing and sampling techniques, including methods for monitoring water level, penetration tests, land and marine geophysical surveys and downhole logging. Student are expected to gain an understanding on the applicability and limitations of the methods in various geotechnical situations.

Course Details

On completion of the programme, students should be able to:

1. Describe the various basic geotechnical testing methods used in the field;
2. Describe the function and limitation of the testing methods used in the field;
3. Provide recommendation on the viability of using specific testing methods in common geological site investigation.

Syllabus

1. Site Investigation Procedures
   1. Overview
   2. Data collection methods and selection of parameters
   3. Desk study
   4. Investigation reporting
2. Geotechnical Instrumentation and Monitoring Methods
   1. Principles and installation of instruments
   2. Manual and automatic monitoring of instruments
   3. Acceptance criteria for monitoring results 
3. Drilling Methods and Techniques
   1. Drilling method with different core barrels
   2. Marine Drilling 
   3. Inspection and trial pitting
   4. Chunam stripping
   5. Small hole coring method
4. In-situ Tests in Soil
   1. Standard penetration test
   2. Dynamic probe test (GCO Probe)
   3. Vane shear test
   4. Falling and constant head permeability tests
   5. Cone penetration test
5. In-situ Tests in Rock
   1. Lugeon test (Rock packer water absorption) test
   2. Point load test
6. Principle and Application in Land and Marine Geophysics
   1. Resistivity survey
   2. Refraction survey
   3. Gravimetric survey
   4. Ground penetrating radar
   5. Echo sounding
   6. Continuous seismic reflection profiling
   7. Side Scan sonar
7. Application of Geophysical Methods in Foundation Project
   1. Acoustic borehole televiewer test
   2. Sonic echo sounding test (Pile Integrity Test)
   3. Crosshole sonic logging test (Concrete Quality Sonic Test)
   4. Ultrasonic echo sounder test (Koden Test)
8. Soil Sampling Techniques and Classification of Quality Grades
   1. Piston sampling
   2. Mazier sampling
   3. Driven tube sampling
   4. Vibro-coring
   5. Block sampling

Entry Requirements

Applicants shall:

1. have gained in the HKDSE Examination Level 2 or above in five subjects*^{^} including English Language and Chinese Language^#, Mathematics (Core) and one of the following: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Combined Science or Geography; or

2. hold a Diploma in Foundation Studies ; or

3. hold a Diploma of Applied Education, Diploma Yi Jin or equivalent qualification(s).

Equivalent qualifications will be considered by the College.

Applicants who do not possess the above academic qualifications but who are aged 21 or above with relevant work experience will be considered on individual merit.

Application

Please complete and submit the Application for Enrolment Form [SF26] (https://website-file.hkuspace.hku.hk/ApplicationForm/SF26.pdf ), together with the required academic qualifications documents (see above entry requirements) on or before the application deadline:

In person

By email

Assessment

Students are required to do a 2-hour written examination, group-based reports and tutorial exercises.

Upon successful completion of the programme, students will be awarded within the HKU system through HKU SPACE a "Certificate for Module (Site Investigation and Field Instrumentation)".