Geology for Ground Engineering Projects

Engineering Geology is the application of the science of geology to the understanding of geologic phenomena and the engineering solution of geologic hazards and other geologic problems for society. It has wide applications in various engineering fields especially in urban planning and expansion. Site investigation for major structures such as dams, factories, and heavy buildings is one of the main parts of engineering applications. Others include earth material characterization, exploration and assessment of construction materials and assessment of difficult grounds, expansive and collapsible soils. The obtained information can be presented in a form of engineering geological maps, which is essential in several projects. This book presents emphasis on the engineering aspects of soil and rock mechanics, geology and hydrogeology, although papers on theoretical and experimental advances in ground mechanics. It encompasses a broad spectrum of geo-engineering although several areas have been identified. In particular, this book demonstrates that: working standards originally developed nationally are becoming internationalised; risk assessment, rather than just assessment of hazards, is driving decision-making; geo-environmental change, whether climatically or anthropogenically driven, is becoming better understood; greater use of underground space is being made. Geological engineers carry out site investigations for dams, plants, roads, railways, housing projects, mines and quarries, pipelines, petroleum production, forestry operations and a variety of other things. They interact with civil engineers to design essential parts of projects. They are responsible for environmental assessments or clean-up activities where pollution has occurred. They prospect for minerals, building material resources and drinking water. They carry out hazard and risk assessments and mapping for landslides and earthquakes. Consequently, high-quality geological models are critical for ground engineering projects. Project engineers need to have a sound comprehension of the geological models presented to them, and to be able to discuss the models in so far as they might impinge on the design, safety and possible budgetary or time constraints of the project. Engineers must develop new solutions to cure the problems. Geological engineers have a crucial role because of their knowledge of how the earth reacts to various engineering processes. With increasing value of land, demand for innovative solutions such as the use of underground space will grow steadily. Highly talented engineers are needed to design and construct excavations and tunnels and to safely dispose of garbage, sewage, and toxic chemicals. Building and maintenance of roads, railways, airports, transmission lines and pipelines in the challenging terrain require an enormous amount of expert input from geological engineers.