Study level

  • Master of Philosophy
  • Honours

Faculty/School

Topic status

We're looking for students to study this topic.

Supervisors

Dr Yilin Gui
Position
Senior Lecturer in Geotechnical Engineering
Division / Faculty
Faculty of Engineering

Overview

Expansive soils are those which can experience significant volume change when water content varies and as of this reason they are considered as problematic soils in geotechnical engineering. Expansive soils are widely distributed globally and cover a significant percentage of world land surface, especially in arid and semi-arid area.
In Australia, expansive soil covers around 20% of surface soils and approximately 30% of the total ‘built-up’ land area is covered by expansive soils. This figure is expected to increase, as the outer suburbs of cities like Sydney and Melbourne have been developed, where expansive soils in these areas are extensive.

Research activities

The student is expected to conduct relevant literature review, and work with current research student to simulate the response of expansive soil using Finite Element Method.

Outcomes

Through the project, it is expected to have a better understanding of expansive soil under drying and wetting and its influence on the buried utilities.

Skills and experience

  • Good communication skills in English environment.
  • Good team work and the will to do collaboration.
  • Relevant engineering and science background including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering and materials.

Scholarships

You may be eligible to apply for a research scholarship.

Explore our research scholarships

Keywords

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.