Foundations of Engineering Geology, Second Edition

The study of the solid part of the earth on which structures are to be built is an essential part of the training of a civil engineer. Without an in-depth understanding of rock properties, formation processes, and weathering characteristics, it is impossible to build safely and with confidence: no amount of elegant superstructure design will help if the foundations collapse into a limestone cavern or old mine working. This new book complements existing, long-established volumes by providing an overview of the main facets of geology for engineers. Each topic is presented as a double-page spread with a careful mix of text, tables and diagrams. There are forty double-page spreads, covering the entire spectrum of topics of interest to both student and practitioner. Appendices provide useful reference material (mostly in tabular form) of parameters such as bearing strength of soils and rocks, and load factors.