Engineering Geology Lecture Notes

Introduction to Engineering Geology

• New subject: Engineering Geology
• Importance in Civil Engineering
  • Understanding properties of minerals, rocks, and water
  • Theoretical concepts applied to practical scenarios

Course Structure

• 2019 Scheme divided into five modules:
  1. Basic concepts and importance in Civil Engineering
  2. Weathering of rocks and landslides
  3. Earthquakes and hydrogeology
  4. Mineralogy and petrology
  5. Structural geology

Course Outputs

• Understanding surface and subsurface processes
• Knowledge of minerals, rocks, and groundwater
• Application in civil engineering constructions

Study Recommendations

• Focus on theoretical aspects
• Read textbooks thoroughly
• Make concise notes for revision
• Importance of understanding soil properties for stability checks

Examination Insights

• Subject relevance in community exams (e.g., Kerala PSE)
• Important topics may include:
  • Properties of rocks and minerals
  • Surface water processes

Detailed Module Breakdown

Module 1: Introduction and Weathering

• Purpose of Engineering Geology
• Types of weathering and their effects
• Understanding landslides

Module 2: Earthquakes

• Causes and phenomena of earthquakes

Module 3: Hydrogeology

• Study of groundwater, aquifers, and related concepts

Module 4: Mineralogy and Petrology

• Definitions and importance:
  • Mineralogy: Study of minerals
  • Petrology: Study of rocks

Module 5: Structural Geology

• Analysis of rock formations and structures

Importance of Engineering Geology in Civil Engineering

1. Construction Planning and Design

   • Importance of geological data for safe construction
   • Evaluation of soil properties for foundations

2. Water Resource Development

   • Understanding the water cycle for regional planning

3. Town and Regional Planning

   • Evaluating soil and geological conditions for sustainable development

Key Geological Processes

• Importance of geological knowledge:
  • Topographic, hydrological, and geological maps for planning
  • Role in selecting appropriate construction materials

Weathering of Rocks

• Definition: Disintegration of rock materials
• Types of Weathering:
  1. Mechanical Weathering
     • Frost action
     • Thermal effects
     • Unloading
  2. Chemical Weathering
     • Processes such as hydration, hydrolysis, oxidation, etc.
  3. Biological Weathering
     • Impact of biological activities on rock disintegration

Conclusion

• Importance of revising and summarizing notes in personal wording
• Encouragement to engage with the material actively for better retention.