Databases for Data-Centric Geotechnics

Databases for Data-Centric Geotechnics forms a definitive reference and guide to databases in geotechnical and rock engineering, to enhance decision-making in geotechnical practice using data-driven methods.

The first volume pertains to site characterization. The opening chapter presents a deep analysis of site data attributes, including the establishment of a new taxonomy of site data under “4S” (site generalizations, spatial features, sampling characteristics, and smart data) to provide a novel agenda for data-driven site characterization. Type 3 machine learning methods (disruptive value) are possible as sensors become more pervasive and more intelligent. A comprehensive overview of site characterization information is also presented with a focus on its availability, coverage, value to decision making, and challenges. The following 13 chapters then present databases of soil and rock properties and the application of these databases to rock socket behavior, rock classification, settlement on soft marine clays, permeability of fine-grained soils, and liquefaction among others.

The second volume pertains to geotechnical structures. The opening chapter presents a substantial survey of performance databases and the effectiveness of our prediction models in matching the field measurements in these databases, based on (1) full-scale field tests, (2) 39 prediction exercises organized as a part of international conferences, and (3) comparison between numerical analyses and in-situ or field measurements conducted by the French LCPC. The focus is on the evaluation of the statistical degree of confidence in predicting various of quantities of interest such as capacity and deformation. The following 18 chapters then present databases on the performance of shallow foundations, spudcan foundations, deep foundations, anchors and pipelines, retaining systems and excavations, and landslides.

The databases were compiled from studies undertaken in many countries including Austria, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Finland, Germany, India, Iran, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, UK and USA.

Databases for Data-Centric Geotechnics represents the most diverse and comprehensive assembly of database research in a single publication (consisting of two volumes) to date. It follows from Model Uncertainties for Foundation Design, also published by CRC Press, and suits specialist geotechnical engineers, researchers and graduate students.