The Dynamic Crossroads of Earth Science, Geology, and Mechanics in Geotechnical Engineering – Ep 085

In this episode, we talk with Mohsen Radi, PhD, PE, M.ASCE, a distinguished Civil and Geotechnical Engineer about the dynamic crossroads of earth science, geology, and mechanics in geotechnical engineering. Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions We Ask Mohsen: Can you give an overview of the importance of geotechnical engineering in civil engineering? What is the most important aspect of geotechnical engineering in civil engineering? Can you discuss the crossroads of earth science, geology, and mechanics in geotechnical engineering? How do soil and rock mechanics principles shape the design and construction of structures? What are some of the challenges that geotechnical engineers face when dealing with different soil and rock properties on a site? What are the challenges that geotechnical engineers face in different parts of the world? What role do geotechnical engineers play in disaster mitigation? What are the specific measures that geotechnical engineers can take to enhance the seismic resilience of structures and foundations? What are some recent innovations and emerging trends in geotechnical engineering? How are geotechnical engineers using remote sensing, geospatial analysis, and numerical modeling to enhance their methodologies? What advice would you give to aspiring geotechnical engineers? Here Are Some of the Key Points Discussed About The Dynamic Crossroads of Earth Science, Geology, and Mechanics in Geotechnical Engineering: Geotechnical engineers use their knowledge of soil mechanics and field activities to investigate the soil and rock properties of a site. They collect data from the site and analyze it in the laboratory to design safe and stable structures. Geotechnical engineering is a branch of civil engineering that focuses on the interaction between soil and structures. Geotechnical engineers design and assess foundations, slopes, and other structures that interact with the ground. They use their knowledge of soil mechanics and engineering geology to ensure that structures are safe and stable. Geologists and geophysicists help geotechnical engineers to understand the subsurface conditions at a construction site. This information is essential for designing safe and stable foundations. Geologists provide information about the composition, structure, and history of the ground, while geophysicists use methods such as seismic waves and electrical resistivity to image the subsurface. By working together, they can gain a comprehensive understanding of the subsurface conditions and use this information to design structures that will withstand the forces of nature. Geotechnical engineers take soil samples from the ground and analyze them in the lab to determine the soil's properties, such as its moisture content, void ratio, strength, and type. This information is used to design foundations that are safe and stable for specific soil conditions. Geotechnical engineers face challenges when dealing with subsurface features that are hard to find and investigate. For example, mine activities from 100 years ago can cause settlement issues if they are not stable. Engineers need to make sure that mines are stable before building new structures. Subsurface investigations are important to find out the water level, soil type, and strength. This information is used to design foundations and other structures that are safe and stable. Geotechnical engineers analyze the stability of slopes to ensure that they are safe. They do this by taking soil samples, analyzing them in the lab, and using software to analyze the slope. The safety factors are higher in areas with a higher risk of landslides and earthquakes. In seismic design,