3 rd Open Days of Geotechnics – Secondary School of Civil Engineering in Rijeka, May 2024
In cooperation with Rijekaprojekt geotehničko istraživanje d.o.o. and the Secondary School of Civil Engineering in Rijeka, we organized the Open Day of Geotechnics for the third year in a row. This event is not only an opportunity to promote geotechnics, but also an indicator of our investment in young people and their education.
This year’s Open Day was very interesting for students. Our experts prepared six demonstration points where they demonstrated the different methods and techniques used in geotechnics. From geology to exploratory drilling, students had the opportunity to see some of the investigation methods and ask our team questions.
The first demonstration point was about geology, where the students had the opportunity to learn about the geological structure of the foundation soil, the composition of soil and rocks and the importance of this data in planning construction projects. We also had several samples of different types of rocks that they could look at and touch.
The second point was for geophysical tests, where the students watched with attention the demonstration of different techniques, such as seismic refraction and electrical tomography.
The third point included exploratory drilling, where the students could see the exploratory drilling machine and learn all about its characteristics and its application in field investigation.
Laboratory tests were the focus of the fourth point, where the students had the opportunity to learn how soil and rock samples are analyzed in laboratory conditions and to try using the point load test device. With the help of a hydraulic handle, they applied force to the samples of different types of rocks and, in this way, could feel the rock’s resistance to the load.
The fifth point was reserved for a Lightweight Dynamic Penetrometer (DPL), which is used to determine the thickness of soil layers, to check the degree of soil compaction or consistency and to determine strength and deformation parameters.
The dynamic plate presented at the sixth point was very interesting for the students. Some were quite happy to try handling this geotechnical device, which is used for determining soil constrained modulus.
One of the most important aspects of this event was the interaction between the students and our experts. The active participation of the students, plenty of questions asked and the practical demonstration of the devices and tools showed how interested young people were in geotechnics and how ready they were to put effort into their education. This is inspiring because it indicates the potential of younger generations and their desire to acquire knowledge and skills.
We hope that, this year, we have managed to stimulate young people’s interest in geotechnics and provide them with an insight into the possibilities that this field offers them. Investing in the future of young people is not an investment only in them, but also in the future of the construction industry and society as a whole. Therefore, it is important to continue to support them on their way to success and provide them with opportunities for learning and development.
