Abstract
Terzaghi is generally acknowledged as the father of soil mechanics. The paper draws attention to his appreciation of an understanding of the geological profile in terms of its engineering significance. His contribution is considered in terms of the modern practice of modelling and his own emphasis on the importance of experience and judgement. The “geotechnical triangle” is discussed as a useful way of bringing together the important aspects of the geotechnical engineer’s work.
Résumé
Terzaghi est généralement reconnu comme le père de la mécanique des sols. L’article attire l’attention sur sa démarche d’interprétation d’un profil géologique en termes de propriétés géotechniques et conséquences pour des travaux d’engineering. Sa contribution est analysée par rapport à la pratique actuelle de la modélisation, considérant son attachement à un jugement d’expert éclairé, soutenu par des références aux retours d’expérience. Le « triangle géotechnique » est présenté comme une base utile à la confrontation des différentes approches nécessaires au métier de l’ingénieur géotechnicien.
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Burland, J. Terzaghi: back to the future. Bull Eng Geol Environ 66, 29–33 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-006-0083-9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-006-0083-9