This textbook, "Fundamentals of Geotechnical Engineering and Ground
Improvement Techniques," is designed as an introductory course for undergraduate
Civil Engineering students and those preparing for competitive exams. It aims to
provide a clear understanding of basic concepts and numerical problems in
Geotechnical Engineering. The book is divided into two parts. Part I (Chapters 1 to 13)
describes the soil properties (index and engineering), methods to estimate the soil
properties, estimation of consolidation characteristics, shear strength parameters,
estimation of stresses in soils, earth pressure calculations, slope stability analysis,
bearing capacity theories and design of pile foundations. Detailed explanations of
numerical problems related to each topic are provided to help students prepare for
both academic and competitive exams. Additionally, practice problems are included to
develop proficiency in problem-solving.
Part II (Chapters 14 to 20) covers various ground improvement techniques in practice
and the relevant conditions. The topics covered in these chapters are factors to be
considered to choose the ground improvement technique, mechanical modification
using various compaction equipment, the use of sand drains, prefabricated drains,
dewatering techniques, use of different chemical amendments in soil stabilization,
thermal methods, grouting techniques, inclusion of various fibers in soil, soil
reinforcement, use of various Geosynthetics in ground improvement, Soil nailing,
ground anchorage, Gabions, Mattresses, rock bolting, micro piles, diaphragm walls,
touch piles, soil liners, ground contamination and remediation of contaminated sites.
Any suggestions for improving the content of this book will be gratefully
acknowledged and highly appreciated.
Dr. J Sumalatha
Dr. J Sumalatha is working as Associate Professor in the Department of Civil
Engineering, M S Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore, India. She did
her graduation in Civil Engineering from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological
University, Kakinada (JNTUK) and got her Master’s degree (MTech) in
Geotechnical Engineering from National Institute of Technology, Warangal
(NITW). She completed her Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from IISc, Bangalore.
She has over 15 years of teaching experience and around 5 years of
experience in Civil & Construction industry. Her research areas are Soil
Remediation, Landfill design, Soil Stabilization and Foundation design. She
has published more than 30 research articles in journals and 10 book
chapters. She is a reviewer of many journals and conferences. She is life
member of Institution of Engineers (India) and Indian Geotechnical Society
(IGS). She is having hands-on experience with software tools such as
POLLUTE, GEO5, HYDRUS, MATLAB, AutoCAD and REVIT Architecture.