Forensic Geotechnical and Foundation Engineering, Second Edition
Why did the building collapse? What caused cracking in the bridge supports? Who's responsible for the sideways settling of the shopping mall? These are the types of questions forensics engineers answer, often as expert witnesses in legal procedures. Clearly written and easy to use, this authoritative book shows you how to conduct a professional forensic geotechnical and foundation investigation. Written by a leading forensic engineer and packed with interesting case studies, it shows you step-by-step how to: INVESTIGATE damage, deterioration, or collapse in a structure. EVALUATE problems caused by settlement, expansive soil, slope movement, moisture intrusion, and more. INVESTIGATE damage from earthquakes and other natural causes. DETERMINE what caused the damage. DEVELOP repair recommendations. PREPARE files and reports. AVOID civil liability. Sulfate attack, dam failure, tree roots, decomposition of organic matter, or any other factor--no matter what caused the structural damage, this book will help you pinpoint it and, if necessary, suggest a remedy. With advice on all aspects of the process, from accepting the assignment to testifying compellingly, this book is your all-in-one guide to geotechnical and foundation investigations in forensic engineering.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.