Geomechanics: Basic Concepts

This lecture covers the basic concepts of geomechanics, including stress paths, stress-strain behavior, and effective stress for saturated media. It explains the interpretation of mechanics of porous media at different scales and the concepts of continuum mechanics. The instructor discusses the critical state concept and shear strength analysis through laboratory testing, emphasizing the practical examples and procedures to reproduce stress paths. The lecture also delves into the isotropic drained compression, preconsolidation pressure, and overconsolidation ratio, providing insights into the behavior of soils under different stress conditions.