Developments in Engineering Geology

Developments in Engineering Geology is a showcase of the diversity in the science and practice of engineering geology. All branches of geology are applicable to solving engineering problems and this presents a wide frontier of scientific opportunity to engineering geology. In practice, diversity represents a different set of challenges with the distinctive character of the profession derived from the crossover between the disciplines of geology and engineering. This book emphasizes the importance of understanding the geological science behind the engineering behaviour of a soil or rock. It also highlights a continuing expansion in the practice areas of engineering geology and illustrates how this is opening new frontiers to the profession thereby introducing new knowledge and technology across a range of applications. This is initiating an evolution in the way geology is modelled in engineering, geohazard and environmental studies in modern and traditional areas of engineering geology.
Revised hazard assessment for Afulilo Dam, Samoa
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Published:January 01, 2016
Abstract
Afulilo Dam was built as part of a hydroelectric scheme to augment the power supply for the island of Upolu, Samoa. The 23 m high concrete gravity dam sits on the crest of a waterfall that once drained an intermontane basin. Initially, concerns were expressed about a possible active fault through the dam site linked with a larger fault across the island. This assertion was refuted but not tested by the owners, and the dam came into operation as planned. This issue was again reviewed in 2009–10 as part of an environmental and power augmentation study. The opportunity was also taken to test the compliance of the dam with accepted international practices. Additional regional geological assessments, a review of the seismic data and further drilling at the dam site provided data to improve the geological model for the dam site. It is concluded and confirmed that there is no clear evidence for the existence of such faults. If they do exist, they are not active and therefore not significant for the safety of the dam.