Engineering Geology

and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Engineering Geology and Seismology

Introduction to Engineering Geology

Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Professor (Asst.), Tenure Track

Earthquake Engineering Center

UET Peshawar, KP
PAKISTAN
E-Mail: [email protected]

The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

September 15, 2014

Geology, Definition

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

The term Geology comes from the Greek g means Earth

and logia means study of, discourse.
It is the science comprising

The study of solid Earth,

The rocks of which it is composed, and

The processes by which they change.

Geology can also refer generally to,

The study of the solid features of any celestial body (such

as the geology of the Moon or Mars)

Geology gives insight into The History of the Earth, as

It provides the primary evidence for Plate Tectonics,

The Evolutionary history of life, and

Past Climates.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Geology, Aims & Objectives

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

In modern times, geology is commercially important

for,

Mineral and hydrocarbon exploration,

Exploitation and
Evaluating water resources.

It is publicly important for,

The prediction and understanding of natural hazards,

The remediation of environmental problems and
Providing insights into past climate change.

Geology plays a vital role in Geotechnical

Engineering.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Geology, Importance

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

As a Society We may need many things relevant to geology,

Energy Resources (oil, gas, petroleum) and the raw material we

need for survival, comfort, and pleasure.

Every manufactured object relies on Earths resources - even a

small pencil.

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology, Geologic Time Scale

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology, Geologic Time Scale

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects

Explanations
A-Folded rock strata cut by a thrust fault;
B-Large intrusion (cutting through A);
C-Erosional angular unconformity (cutting off A & B) on which rock strata were
deposited;
D-Volcanic dyke (cutting through A, B & C);
E-Even younger rock strata (overlying C & D);
F-Normal fault (cutting through A, B, C & E).
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Role of Engineer in Site

Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Geology, Solar System Formation

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Nebular Hypothesis

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Aims and Objectives

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Engineering geology is the application of the Geologic

Sciences to Engineering Practices for the purpose of
assuring that,

The geologic factors affecting the location, design,

construction, operation and maintenance of engineering
works are Recognized and adequately Provided for.

Engineering geologists investigate and provide geologic

and geotechnical recommendations, analysis, and design
associated with human development.
The realm of the engineering geologist is essentially in the
area of,

Earth-Structure interactions: Investigation of how the earth

or earth processes impact human made structures and
human activities.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Aims and Objectives

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Engineering geologic studies may be performed,

During the planning,

Environmental impact analysis,

Civil or structural engineering design, and

Construction phases of public and private works projects.

Works completed by engineering geologists include;

Geologic hazards,

Geotechnical, material properties,

Landslide and slope stability,
Erosion, flooding, dewatering, and
Seismic investigations, etc.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Aims and Objectives

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Engineering geologic studies are performed by a

Geologist or Engineering Geologist that is

Educated, trained and has obtained experience related to

the recognition and interpretation of natural processes,

The understanding of how these processes impact manmade structures (and vice versa), and

Knowledge of methods by which to mitigate for hazards.

The principal objective of the engineering geologist is

The protection of Life and Property
against damages caused by geologic conditions.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Engineering Geology
and Seismology

History

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Presentation Contents

Although the science of geology has been around since the

18th century,

At least in its modern form, the science and practices of

engineering geology didnt begin as a recognized discipline until
the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The first book entitled Engineering Geology was published in

1880 by William Penning.

In the early 20th century Charles Berkey, an American trained

geologist who was considered the first American engineering
geologist,

Worked on a number of water supply projects for New York City,

Then later worked on the Hoover dam and a multitude of other

engineering projects.

The first American engineering geology text book was written

in 1914 by Ries and Watson.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Engineering Geology
and Seismology

History

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

In 1925, Karl Terzaghi, an Austrian Civil Engineer and Geologist,

published the first text in Soil Mechanics (in German).

Terzaghi is known as the father of soil mechanics, but also had great
interest in geology.

Terzaghi considered soil mechanics to be a sub-discipline of

Engineering Geology.

In 1929, Terzaghi, along with Redlich and Kampe, published their own
Engineering Geology text (also in German).
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Engineering Geology
and Seismology

History

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects

The need for geologist on engineering works gained world wide attention in
1928 with the failure of the St. Francis Dam in California

Resulted in the loss of 426 lives, and

USD 10 25 Millions economic losses.

More engineering failures which occurred the following years also prompted
the requirement for engineering geologists to work on large engineering
projects.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Role of Engineer in Site

Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Engineering Geology
and Seismology

Practices

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Presentation Contents

One of the most important roles of the engineering geologist is

the interpretation of landforms and earth processes,

To identify potential geologic and related man-made hazards that

may impact civil structures and human development.

The background in geology provides the engineering geologist

with an understanding of,

How the earth works, which is crucial minimizing earth related

hazards.

Most engineering geologists also have graduate degrees

where they have gained specialized education and training in,

Soil mechanics, rock mechanics, geotechnics, groundwater,

hydrology, and civil design.
These aspects of the engineering geologists education provides them
with a unique ability to understand and mitigate for hazards associated
with earth-structure interactions.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Scope of Studies

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Engineering geologic studies may be performed,

For residential, commercial and industrial developments;

For governmental and military installations;

For public works such as a power plant, wind turbine,

transmission line, sewage treatment plant, water treatment plant,
pipeline (aqueduct, sewer, outfall), tunnel, trenchless
construction, canal, dam, reservoir, building, railroad, transit,
highway, bridge, seismic retrofit, airport and park;

For mine and quarry excavations, mine tailing dam, mine

reclamation and mine tunneling;

For wetland and habitat restoration programs;

For coastal engineering, sand replenishment, bluff or sea cliff

stability, harbor, pier and waterfront development;

For offshore outfall, drilling platform and sub-sea pipeline, subsea cable, etc.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Geohazards and Adverse Geo-Conditions

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Typical geologic hazards or other adverse conditions evaluated and

mitigated by an engineering geologist include:

Fault rupture on seismically active faults;

Seismic and earthquake hazards (ground shaking, liquefaction, lurching,

lateral spreading, tsunami and seiche events);

Landslide, mudflow, rockfall, debris flow, and avalanche hazards;

Unstable slopes and slope stability;

Erosion;

Slaking and heave of geologic formations, such as frost heaving;

Ground subsidence (such as due to ground water withdrawal, sinkhole

collapse, cave collapse, decomposition of organic soils, and tectonic
movement);

Volcanic hazards (volcanic eruptions, hot springs, pyroclastic flows, debris

flow, debris avalanche, gas emissions, volcanic earthquakes);

Non-rippable or marginally rippable rock requiring heavy ripping or blasting;

Weak and collapsible soils, foundation bearing failures;

Shallow ground water/seepage, etc.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Common Geohazards in Pakistan

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Soil and Rock Mechanics

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Soil mechanics is a discipline that applies principles of

engineering mechanics e.g.,

kinematics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, and mechanics of

material,

to predict the mechanical behavior of soils.

Rock mechanics is the theoretical and applied science of the
mechanical behaviour of rock and rock masses;

It is that branch of mechanics concerned with the response

of rock and rock masses to the force fields of their physical
environment.

The fundamental processes are all related to the behaviour of

porous media.
Together, soil and rock mechanics are the basis for solving
many engineering geologic problems.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Methods and Reporting

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

The method used by engineering geologist include

Geologic field mapping of geologic structures, geologic formations,

soil units and hazards;

The review of geologic literature, geologic maps, geotechnical

reports, engineering plans, environmental reports, stereoscopic
aerial photographs, remote sensing data, Global Positioning System
(GPS) data, topographic maps and satellite imagery;

The excavation, sampling and logging of earth/rock materials in

drilled borings, backhole test pits and trenches, fault trenching, and
bulldozer pits;

Geophysical surveys: seismic refraction traverses, resistivity

surveys, ground penetrating radar (GPR) surveys, magnetometer
surveys, electromagnetic surveys, high-resolution sub-bottom
profiling

Deformation monitoring as the systematic measurement and

tracking of the alteration in the shape or dimensions of an object as
a result of the application of stress to it manually or with an
automatic deformation monitoring system, etc.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Methods and Reporting

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

The field work is typically culminated in analysis of the data

and the preparation of an engineering geologic report,
geotechnical report, fault hazard or seismic hazard report,
geophysical report, ground water resource report or
hydrogeological report.
The engineering geologic report is often prepared in
conjunction with a geotechnical report,

But commonly provide geotechnical analysis and design

recommendations independent of a geotechnical report.

An engineering geologic report describes

The objectives, methodology, references cited, tests performed,

findings and recommendations for development.

Engineering geologists also provide geologic data on

Topographic maps, aerial photographs, geologic maps,

Geographic Information System (GIS) maps.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Role of Engineer in Site Exploration

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

The investigation of the suitability and characteristics of sites

as they affect the design and construction of civil engineering
works and the security of neighboring structures.
The systematic exploration and investigation of a new site may
involve five stages of procedure,

Preliminary Investigation using published information and other

existing data;
A detailed Geological Survey of the site, possibly with a
photogeology study;
Applied Geophysical Surveys to provide information about the
subsurface geology;
Boring, Drilling and Excavation to provide confirmation of the
previous results, and quantitative details, at critical points on the
site; and
Testing of soils and rocks to assess their suitability, particularly
their mechanical properties (soil mechanics and rock
mechanics), either in situ or from samples.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Role of Engineer in Site Exploration

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

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).

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology

However, even where the services of a specialist consultant

are employed, an engineer will have overall supervision and
responsibility for the project.

The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

The engineer must therefore have enough understanding of

geology,

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects

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.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Role of Engineer in Site

Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Role of Engineer in Site Exploration

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Engineer may recognize common rock types and simple geological

structures, and knows where to obtain geological information for
preliminary investigation.
When reading reports, or studying geological maps, it is a must to
have complete understanding of the meaning of geological terms
and be able to grasp geological concepts and arguments.

For example, a site described in a geological report as being

underlain by clastic sedimentary rocks might be considered by a
Civil Engineer to consist entirely of sandstones.
However, clastic sedimentary rocks include a variety of different
rock types, such as conglomerates, sandstones and shales or
mudstones.

Each of these rock types has different engineering properties, which

could affect many aspects of the development works,

Such as core drilling into, and excavation of, the rock mass, and
deep piling into the underlying strata.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Relevance of Geology to Civil Engineering

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Most civil engineering projects involve some excavation of

soils and rocks, or involve loading the Earth by building on it.
In some cases, the excavated rocks may be used as
constructional material, and in others, rocks may form a major
part of the finished product,
Such as a motorway cutting or
The site for a reservoir
The feasibility, the planning and design, the construction and
costing, and the safety of a project may depend critically on the
geological conditions where the construction will take place.
This is especially the case in extended greenfield sites,
where the area affected by the project stretches for kilometers,
across comparatively undeveloped ground.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Relevance of Geology to Civil Engineering

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Examples include the Channel Tunnel project and the

construction of motorways in the UK.

In a section of the M9 motorway linking Edinburgh and

Stirling,
It crosses abandoned oil-shale workings, realignment of the
road, on the advice of government geologists, led to a
substantial saving.

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

In modest projects, or in those involving the

redevelopment of a limited site, the demands on the
geological knowledge of the engineer or the need for
geological advice will be less, but are never negligible.

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects

Site investigation by boring and by testing samples may

be an adequate preliminary to construction in such cases.

Q&A

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Role of Engineer in Site

Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Relevance of Geology to Civil Engineering

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

For selection of an optimum route (safe, economical and fastest) will

require careful consideration of the site geology.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geological Studies

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Geology is the study of the solid Earth. It includes the

investigation of

The rocks forming the Earth (Petrology) and of

How they are distributed (their Structure), and

Their constituents (Mineralogy and Crystallography).

Geochemistry is a study of the chemistry of rocks and the

distribution of major and trace elements in rocks, rock
suites, and minerals.

This can lead to an understanding of how a particular rock

has originated (petro genesis), and also, in the broadest
sense, to a knowledge of the chemistry of the upper
layers of the Earth.

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology

Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Geological Studies

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

The distribution of rocks at the Earths surface is found by,

Making a geological survey (that is, by geological mapping)

It is recorded on geological maps.

This information about rocks is superimposed on a

topographic base map.
Knowledge of the nature and physical conditions of the
deeper levels of the planet can be gained only by the
special methods of geophysics, the twin science of
geology.
From the theory and methods of geophysics, a set of
techniques (applied geophysics) has been evolved for
exploring the distribution of rocks of shallower levels
where the interests of geologists and geophysicists are
most intertwined.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Geological Studies

Engineering Geology
and Seismology
Dr. Naveed Ahmad
Presentation Contents

Knowledge of the Earth at the present time raises questions

about the processes that have formed it in the past: that is,
about its history.

The interpretation of rock layers as Earth history is called

Stratigraphy, and

A study of the processes leading to the formation of sedimentary

rocks is called Sedimentology.

The study of fossils (Paleontology) is closely linked to Earth

history, and from both has come the understanding of the
development of life on our planet.

The insight thus gained, into expanses of time stretching back

over thousands of millions of years, into the origins of life and
into
The evolution of man, is geologys main contribution to scientific
philosophy and to the ideas of educated men and women.
CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar

Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology
The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

Engineering Geology
and Seismology

Q&A

Dr. Naveed Ahmad

Presentation Contents
Geology
What It Is About?

Engineering Geology

Many Thanks for Your Attention

Questions & Answers

The Know-How
History
Practices
Scope of Studies
Geohazards and Adverse
Geo-Conditions
Soil and Rock Mechanics
Methods and Reporting

Importance of Geology
for Civil Engineering
Projects
Role of Engineer in Site
Exploration
Relevance of Geology to
Civil Engineering
The Science of Geology

Q&A

See You in The Next Class

CE-312 Engineering Geology and Seismology
Course Instructor
Dr. Naveed Ahmad, EEC, UET Peshawar