4. Introduction
This chapter introduces the field of engineering geology and highlights its
importance in civil engineering practice.
The chapter traces the history and development of engineering geology and
work-activities of geologists in the construction of dams, tunnels, and other
engineering projects.
5. What’s Engineering Geology?
Engineering Geology is an application of geological data, techniques and
principles to the study of rock and soil surficial materials, and ground water.
This is essential for the proper location, planning, design, construction,
operation and maintenance of engineering structure.
Engineering geology complements environmental geology or hydrogeology.
6. Topics of Engineering Geology
Rock types and stratigraphy;
Geology structures;
Surface processes;
Ground water condition and supply;
Description, properties and behavior of rocks and soils;
Geological materials used in constructions;
7. Topics of Engineering Geology
Site investigation;
Geology, Planning and development;
Geology and Construction.
8. Importance of Engineering Geology
In a major engineering project, each of these stages might be
carried out and reported on by a consultant specializing in
geology, geophysics or engineering (with a detailed knowledge
of soil or rock mechanics);
The engineer must therefore have enough understanding of
geology to know how and when to use the expert knowledge of
consultants, and to be able to read their reports intelligently,
judge their reliability, and appreciate how the conditions
described might affect the project.
9. Importance of Engineering Geology
1. Geology systematically studies the structure and
properties of construction materials and their
occurrence.
2. The selection of a site is essential from the foundation
stability and availability of construction materials.
3. Geology helps identify areas susceptible to failures due to
geological hazards.
10. Importance of Engineering Geology
4. The knowledge about the nature of the rocks is very
necessary .
5. The foundation problems of dams, bridges, and buildings are
directly related to the geology of the area where they are to
be built.
6. The knowledge of groundwater is necessary for connection
with excavation works, water supply, irrigation, and many
other purposes.
11. Importance of Engineering Geology
7. The knowledge about the nature of the rocks is very
necessary .
8. Geology helps in determining earthquake-prone areas.
9. Understanding erosion, transportation, and deposition (ETD)
by surface water help soil conservation, river control, and
coastal and harbor works.
10. A site geological survey before starting a project will reduce
the overall cost
13. Geological Hazards
Flood
The southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing in flood, 2021
Nature process
River system
Heavy rain or coastal
storm
Increase water level
The products of other
nature processes:
hurricanes, volcanic
eruptions, …
Human influence
14. Geological Hazards
Earthquakes
A 7.8-magnitude earthquake that hit Nepal on April 30,
2015
Nature process
Earthquake is a shaking
and vibration on the
surface of the Earth
“Seismic waves” are
generated
Can cause massive
damage and destruction
Cannot be predicted
15. Geological Hazards
Tsunamis Nature process
Tsunamis are a series of
enormous waves created by
an underwater disturbance
In the coastline, large
destructive waves
Can cause local devastation
and export tsunami
destruction thousands of
miles away
Tsunami 2004
16. Geological Hazards
Landslides
Prolonged heavy rainfall has caused serious landslides in
Lai Chau, Vietnam, 2017
Nature process
Landslides are defined as
the downward and
outward movement of
slope-forming materials
Classified into different
types
Effect of landslides can
be lessened
