Course Code: CP106

This course is recognized under the Qualifications Framework (QF Level 4)
QF Level: 4    QR Registration No.: 22/000019/L4   QR Registration Validity Period: 1/7/2022 to ongoing

Programme Code: CP106A
Medium of Instruction: English 
Course Fee: TBC
Application Fee: TBC

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

Data collection and parameters of concern in geotechnical instrumentation
Overview
Data collection methods
Geotechnical parameters
Geotechnical instrumentation

In-situ test
Standard penetration test,
Dynamic probe test (GCO Probes)
Vane shear test
In-situ density test
Falling or rising permeability test
Response test
Constant head permeability test
Packer (water absorption) test
Impression packer test and cone penetration test

Installation of standpipe and piezometer
Overview
Case study

Downhole geophysics method
Application of geophysics
Overview of Borehold televiewer

Land and marine geophysics methods
Resistivity survey
Refraction survey
Gravimetric survey
Ground penetrating radar
Echo sounding
Continuous seismic reflection profiling
Scan sonar

Types of samples and their handling include
Piston
Mazier
Driven tube
Vibrocore 
Block sample

Entry Reqirements

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 equivalent qualification; or

3. hold a Diploma Yi Jin.

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.

* Applicants are allowed to use not more than two Applied Learning (ApL) subjects in the application. The recognition of the ApL subjects is as follows: 
“Attained with Distinction (II)” is deemed equivalent to Level 4 or above in the HKDSE Examination;
“Attained with Distinction (I)” is deemed equivalent to Level 3 in the HKDSE Examination; and
“Attained” is deemed equivalent to Level 2 in the HKDSE Examination.

^# ApL Chinese (for non-Chinese speaking students) would be accepted as an alternative Chinese Language qualification.

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 (Field Instrumentation and Site Investigation).