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2.1. Engineering Mechanics and Materials (EMM)
This knowledge area covers the fundamental principles of mechanics, material science, and structural behavior essential for civil engineering design. It encompasses material properties, microstructure analysis, mechanical behavior under various loading conditions, and quality assurance methodologies.
2.1.1. EMM/Construction Materials Science (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Fundamental understanding of construction material properties, microstructural characteristics, and durability performance under environmental and loading conditions.
Topics:
Core
- Physical and mechanical properties of construction materials including density, porosity, strength, and elasticity
- Microstructure and phase composition of construction materials
- Durability mechanisms including weathering, chemical attack, and environmental degradation
- Thermal and moisture properties of construction materials
- Crystalline and amorphous structures in construction materials
- Material selection criteria based on performance requirements
- Degradation mechanisms and service life prediction
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Describe the fundamental physical and mechanical properties of major construction materials [Familiarity]
- Analyze the relationship between microstructure and macroscopic properties of materials [Assessment]
- Evaluate the durability performance of materials under specific environmental conditions [Usage]
- Explain the effects of thermal and moisture variations on material behavior [Familiarity]
- Select appropriate construction materials based on design specifications and performance criteria [Assessment]
- Predict service life and degradation patterns of materials in various environments [Usage]
2.1.2. EMM/Mechanics of Materials and Structural Behavior (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Analysis of stress, strain, deformation, and failure modes in structural members under various loading conditions including axial, bending, torsion, and combined loads.
Topics:
Core
- Stress and strain concepts including normal, shear, and principal stresses
- Axial loading and deformation of members
- Torsion of circular and non-circular sections
- Bending stress and deflection in beams
- Shear stress distribution in beams
- Combined loading and stress transformation
- Buckling of columns and stability analysis
- Fatigue and fracture mechanics
- Elastic and plastic behavior of materials
- Energy methods for structural analysis
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Define stress, strain, and their relationships through constitutive laws [Familiarity]
- Calculate stresses and deformations in members under axial loading [Usage]
- Determine torsional stresses and angles of twist in shafts [Usage]
- Analyze bending stress distribution and deflection in beams [Assessment]
- Compute shear stress distribution in beam cross-sections [Usage]
- Apply stress transformation equations for combined loading conditions [Assessment]
- Evaluate column stability and calculate critical buckling loads [Assessment]
- Explain fatigue failure mechanisms and predict fatigue life [Familiarity]
- Distinguish between elastic and plastic material behavior under loading [Usage]
- Use energy methods to solve deflection and indeterminate structural problems [Usage]
2.1.3. EMM/Concrete Technology and Advanced Cementitious Materials (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Principles of concrete mix design, fresh and hardened concrete properties, admixtures, special concretes, and emerging cementitious materials.
Topics:
Core
- Portland cement chemistry and hydration process
- Aggregates properties and grading requirements
- Mix design methodology for normal strength concrete
- Fresh concrete properties including workability, slump, and setting time
- Hardened concrete properties including strength, modulus, and shrinkage
- Chemical and mineral admixtures for concrete
- High-performance and high-strength concrete design
- Self-consolidating concrete and fiber-reinforced concrete
- Durability aspects including alkali-silica reaction, sulfate attack, and freeze-thaw
- Sustainable and low-carbon concrete technologies including supplementary cementitious materials such as fly ash, slag, and silica fume
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Describe the chemistry of portland cement and the hydration process [Familiarity]
- Evaluate aggregate quality and suitability for concrete production [Assessment]
- Design concrete mixes for specified strength and workability requirements [Usage]
- Test and interpret fresh concrete properties using standard procedures [Assessment]
- Predict hardened concrete properties based on mix proportions and curing conditions [Usage]
- Explain the function and effects of various concrete admixtures [Familiarity]
- Formulate high-performance concrete mixes for demanding applications [Usage]
- Select appropriate special concretes for specific construction scenarios [Assessment]
- Incorporate supplementary cementitious materials to optimize concrete performance [Usage]
- Analyze durability risks and specify protective measures for concrete structures [Assessment]
- Compare environmental impacts and carbon footprints of different concrete formulations [Familiarity]
2.1.4. EMM/Special Concretes and Concrete in Extreme Climates (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Special concrete types for particular construction conditions, including hot-weather and cold-weather concrete, lightweight concrete, shotcrete, and high-durability concrete for aggressive environments.
Topics:
Core
- Hot-weather concrete: heat effects on hydration, retarding admixtures, and curing methods
- Cold-weather concrete: freeze protection, accelerating admixtures, and enclosure protection methods
- Structural lightweight concrete: materials, properties, and mix design
- Mass and heavyweight concrete: heat of hydration control and applications
- Shotcrete: mix design, application process, and quality control
- Concrete for underwater structures: antiwashout mixes and placement methods
- Pervious and architectural concrete: properties and applications
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Identify the effects of hot and cold weather on fresh and hardened concrete properties [Familiarity]
- Apply preventive and corrective measures for concrete production and placement in adverse weather conditions [Usage]
- Select the appropriate special concrete type according to project functional and environmental requirements [Assessment]
- Design lightweight concrete mixes meeting specified strength and density requirements [Usage]
- Specify shotcrete mixing, transport, and placement procedures for tunnel and slope applications [Usage]
- Evaluate the suitability of special concretes for extreme exposure conditions [Assessment]
- Develop specifications for concrete in extreme temperature conditions following ACI 305 and ACI 306 standards [Usage]
2.1.5. EMM/Concrete Transport and Placement (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Methods for transporting, placing, consolidating, and finishing fresh concrete, including mixer trucks, pumps, and conveyor systems, with standardized procedures to ensure structural homogeneity and performance.
Topics:
Core
- Transit mixer transport: maximum delivery time, slump verification, and admissible conditions
- Concrete pumping: pumpable mix design, operating pressure, reach, and blockage prevention
- Placement methods: direct discharge, chutes, buckets, and crane placement
- Concrete consolidation: internal and external vibration, frequency, amplitude, and insertion depth
- Underwater concrete placement by tremie method and in restricted-access conditions
- Belt conveyor and pneumatic transport systems for large-volume concrete
- Concrete surface finishing: leveling, troweling, texturing, and immediate curing
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Plan concrete transport considering delivery distance, setting time, and environmental conditions [Usage]
- Execute standardized concrete placement procedures for different types of structural elements [Usage]
- Apply correct vibration techniques to achieve uniform concrete consolidation [Usage]
- Evaluate concrete placement quality and identify deficiencies such as segregation, honeycombs, and cold joints [Assessment]
- Design pumpable concrete mixes for specific pumping height and distance conditions [Usage]
- Specify placement methods for restricted-access structures or underwater placement conditions [Assessment]
- Develop placement plans minimizing cold joints and ensuring concrete continuity in large structural elements [Usage]
2.1.6. EMM/Statistical Quality Control of Concrete (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Application of statistical methods for concrete production control and acceptance, including sampling, specimen preparation, compressive strength analysis, control charts, and conformance evaluation to ACI and equivalent standards.
Topics:
Core
- Sampling procedures and fresh concrete specimen preparation according to ASTM standards
- Compressive strength testing: procedure, minimum frequency, and testing conditions
- Basic statistics applied to concrete: mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation
- Concrete acceptance criteria according to ACI 318 and equivalent standards
- Statistical control charts (\(\bar{X}\), \(R\)) for continuous monitoring of concrete production
- Non-conforming results analysis: investigation procedures, additional tests, and structural decisions
- Process capability indices (\(C_p\), \(C_{pk}\)) and target mean strength adjustment
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Apply standardized sampling and specimen fabrication procedures for concrete on site [Usage]
- Interpret compressive strength test results and determine their validity [Assessment]
- Calculate basic statistical parameters from series of concrete strength test results [Usage]
- Evaluate concrete acceptance or rejection applying ACI 318 normative criteria [Assessment]
- Construct statistical control charts for continuous monitoring of concrete production [Usage]
- Diagnose causes of excessive variability and propose corrective actions in concrete production [Assessment]
- Determine the target mean strength (\(f'_{cr}\)) considering the statistical variability of the production process [Usage]
2.1.7. EMM/Structural Metals, Alloys, and Corrosion Engineering (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Properties and behavior of structural metals including steel alloys, aluminum, metallurgical principles, and corrosion protection strategies.
Topics:
Core
- Steel composition, classification, and grade designations
- Mechanical properties of structural steel including yield strength and ductility
- Heat treatment processes and their effects on steel properties
- Weldability and connection behavior of structural metals
- Corrosion mechanisms in metallic structures
- High-strength and weathering steel applications
- Aluminum alloys and their structural applications
- Fatigue behavior and fracture toughness of metals
- Corrosion protection methods including coatings and cathodic protection
- Material selection for corrosive and high-temperature environments
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Identify different steel grades and their appropriate structural applications [Familiarity]
- Interpret stress-strain curves and determine mechanical properties of metals [Assessment]
- Explain how heat treatment affects the microstructure and properties of steel [Familiarity]
- Evaluate weldability of metals and specify appropriate welding procedures [Usage]
- Describe the electrochemical basis of metallic corrosion [Familiarity]
- Select high-strength or weathering steel for specific structural requirements [Usage]
- Compare aluminum alloys with steel for lightweight structural applications [Assessment]
- Analyze fatigue loading scenarios and predict service life of metal components [Assessment]
- Design corrosion protection systems for metallic structures in aggressive environments [Usage]
- Specify appropriate materials for structures exposed to extreme conditions [Assessment]
2.1.8. EMM/Polymeric, Composite, and Sustainable Construction Materials (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Properties and applications of polymer-based materials, fiber-reinforced composites, bio-based materials, and sustainable alternatives in construction.
Topics:
Core
- Polymer chemistry and classification of construction polymers
- Mechanical and thermal behavior of polymeric materials
- Fiber-reinforced polymer composites and their structural applications
- Adhesives, sealants, and waterproofing materials
- Composite material mechanics and laminate theory
- FRP strengthening and rehabilitation of concrete and masonry structures
- Bio-based and recycled materials for sustainable construction
- Geopolymers and alternative binder systems
- Environmental degradation and long-term performance of polymers and composites
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Classify polymers used in construction and describe their basic properties [Familiarity]
- Characterize the mechanical and thermal behavior of polymeric materials [Assessment]
- Apply fiber-reinforced polymers in structural design and retrofitting applications [Usage]
- Select appropriate adhesives and sealants for specific construction applications [Familiarity]
- Analyze composite laminates using classical lamination theory [Usage]
- Design FRP strengthening systems for existing concrete or masonry structures [Assessment]
- Evaluate the sustainability and life-cycle performance of bio-based construction materials [Assessment]
- Compare geopolymer binders with traditional portland cement systems [Familiarity]
- Predict long-term degradation of polymers and composites under environmental exposure [Usage]
2.1.9. EMM/Standardized Testing, Quality Control, and Failure Analysis (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Standard test methods for construction materials, quality assurance procedures, statistical quality control, and systematic failure investigation techniques.
Topics:
Core
- Standard test methods for material characterization and acceptance testing
- Sampling procedures and representative sample selection
- Quality control and quality assurance protocols in construction
- Statistical analysis of test data and acceptance criteria
- Non-destructive testing methods for materials and structures
- Advanced material characterization techniques including microscopy and spectroscopy
- Failure analysis methodology and root cause investigation
- Forensic engineering and distress evaluation
- Performance-based testing and specification approaches
- Certification, compliance, and third-party testing requirements
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Perform standard material tests according to ASTM or equivalent specifications [Usage]
- Develop appropriate sampling plans for construction material acceptance [Assessment]
- Implement quality control procedures for construction materials and processes [Usage]
- Analyze test data using statistical methods and establish acceptance criteria [Assessment]
- Apply non-destructive testing techniques for in-situ material evaluation [Familiarity]
- Utilize advanced characterization techniques to investigate material microstructure [Usage]
- Conduct systematic failure analysis to determine root causes of material distress [Assessment]
- Investigate structural failures using forensic engineering methodologies [Assessment]
- Design performance-based test protocols for innovative materials [Usage]
- Interpret certification requirements and coordinate third-party testing programs [Familiarity]
2.1.10. EMM/Traditional and Vernacular Construction Materials (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Classification and properties of construction stone, and of vernacular construction materials -adobe, quincha, tapial, and bamboo- including their quality control testing.
Topics:
Core
- Construction stone: classification and properties
- Adobe as a construction material: fabrication and properties
- Quincha as a construction system: materials and technique
- Tapial (rammed earth) as a construction material: fabrication and properties
- Bamboo as a construction material: properties and structural applications
- Quality control testing for vernacular construction materials
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Classify construction stone by its properties and applications [Familiarity]
- Characterize the physical and mechanical properties of adobe, quincha, and tapial [Usage]
- Evaluate the suitability of bamboo as a structural material in construction [Assessment]
- Perform quality control tests on vernacular construction materials [Usage]
- Recommend the use of an appropriate vernacular material based on a project's conditions [Assessment]
2.1.11. EMM/Equilibrium of Particles and Rigid Bodies (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Analysis of force systems in equilibrium for particles and rigid bodies in two and three dimensions, determination of support reactions, and equilibrium of flexible cables under concentrated and distributed loads.
Topics:
Core
- Equilibrium equations and free-body diagrams for particles and rigid bodies in two and three dimensions
- Flexible cables under concentrated and distributed loads
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Apply equilibrium equations to determine support reactions in two- and three-dimensional rigid-body systems [Usage]
- Determine cable tension and shape under concentrated and distributed loads [Usage]
2.1.12. EMM/Internal Forces in Trusses and Frames (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Determination of internal forces in trusses using the methods of joints and sections, in multi-member frames and machines, and in beams using shear-force and bending-moment diagrams.
Topics:
Core
- Truss analysis using the method of joints and the method of sections
- Free-body diagrams and internal-force analysis of multi-member frames and machines
- Internal forces in beams: shear-force and bending-moment diagrams
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Analyze planar trusses using both the method of joints and the method of sections [Assessment]
- Draw free-body diagrams for multi-member frames and machines and determine internal member forces [Usage]
- Construct shear-force and bending-moment diagrams for beams under concentrated and distributed loads [Assessment]
2.1.13. EMM/Geometric Properties of Areas and Friction (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Determination of centroids and moments of inertia of composite areas, analysis of dry friction phenomena, and introduction to virtual work methods for equilibrium problems.
Topics:
Core
- Centroids and centers of gravity of composite areas and lines
- Moments of inertia of areas and the parallel-axis theorem
- Dry friction: laws of friction, wedges, and screws
- Virtual work and stability of equilibrium
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Determine the geometric properties of complex cross-sections used in structural shapes [Usage]
- Analyze equilibrium problems involving static friction forces [Assessment]
- Apply friction principles to the analysis of wedges and screw mechanisms [Usage]
- Evaluate the stability of equilibrium using virtual work principles [Familiarity]
2.1.14. EMM/Kinematics of Rigid Bodies in Plane Motion (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Kinematic analysis of rigid bodies in plane motion: translation, fixed-axis rotation, general plane motion, and the use of the instantaneous center of rotation to determine velocities and accelerations.
Topics:
Core
- Translation and rotation about a fixed axis
- General plane motion: relative velocity and acceleration, and the instantaneous center of rotation
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Determine the velocity and acceleration of any point in a planar mechanism using the instantaneous center of rotation [Usage]
- Explain the distinction between translation, fixed-axis rotation, and general plane motion [Familiarity]
2.1.15. EMM/Kinetics of Rigid Bodies in Plane Motion (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Kinetic analysis of rigid bodies in plane motion: equations of motion relating external forces to angular acceleration, and the principle of work and energy applied to rotational and translational kinetic energy.
Topics:
Core
- Equations of motion for a rigid body in plane motion
- Kinetic energy of a rigid body and the principle of work and energy
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Apply the equations of motion to relate external forces to the angular acceleration of rigid bodies [Assessment]
- Analyze rigid-body motion problems using the principle of work and energy [Usage]
2.1.16. EMM/Introduction to Structural Vibrations (Core Tier1: 1 hr, Core Tier2: 1 hr) ↑ Back to top
Fundamentals of free and forced vibration of single-degree-of-freedom systems, applied to the assessment of the dynamic behavior of simple structural models.
Topics:
Core
- Undamped free vibration of a single-degree-of-freedom system
- Simple pendulum and mass-spring models
- Natural frequency, period, and amplitude concepts
- Introduction to damped free vibration
Learning Outcomes:
Core:
- Model simple structural systems as single-degree-of-freedom systems [Usage]
- Calculate the natural frequency of a structure to avoid basic resonance phenomena [Assessment]
- Describe the effect of damping on the free-vibration response of a structural system [Familiarity]
- Interpret period and amplitude parameters from a structure's free-vibration response [Usage]