Engineering geology is the application of the geological sciences to engineering study for the purpose of assuring that the geological factors regarding the location, design, construction, operation and maintenance of engineering works are recognized and accounted for. Engineering Geology involves the study and exploitation, as well as preservation, of the uppermost portion of the Earth's crust. Engineering Geology helps to ensure a stable and cost-effective model for construction projects. Gathering geological information for a project site is important in the planning, design, and construction phase of an engineering project. Carrying out a detailed geological survey of the area before starting the project would reduce the overall cost of the project. Common fundamental problems in reservoirs, bridges and other buildings are usually directly related to the geology of the region in which they were constructed. Primary focus areas are: construction of engineered structures such as tunnels, bridges, dams and landfills, development of near-surface resources such as groundwater, geo-thermal energy and mineral deposits, protection from natural hazards (risk management of natural disasters) such as rock falls, landslides and debris flows. Engineering Geology thus helps ensure that structures can be built safely, properly, and in an economically sound manner.
Multidisciplinary knowledge spanning the earth sciences and a number of specialised engineering disciplines is essential in engineering geology investigations. Earth sciences, rock and soil mechanics, groundwater hydraulics, and geotechnical engineering are fundamental studies of engineering geologists. Geological field work and specialised in-situ measurements are the first important steps of data acquisition for most projects, which are then supplemented with laboratory testing and later interpreted with analytical or numerical simulations. The book Essentials of Engineering Geology provides geological and geotechnical recommendations, analysis, and design associated with human development and various types of structures. This book provides comprehensive insights into the field of engineering geology. It traces the evolution of this field and talks in detail about its importance in the present-day scenario. It is a valuable compilation of topics, ranging from the basic to the most complex theories and principles in the field. Also included in it a detailed explanation of the various concept and applications of this subject. It aims to serve as a resource guide for students and facilitate to the study of the discipline.
Daren Crump holds Ph.D. in Geological Science from Science College, Mankwe. His main interest areas are soil mechanics, rock mechanics, geotechnics, groundwater, hydrology, and civil design. He is serving as an Associate Professor at University College, Gwanda. He has written numerous articles and research papers on engineering geology soil mechanics, soil microbiology and soil nutrients, which have been published worldwide. He has organized many training programs, workshops and conferences in the field of geology.
