Soil Fracture Mechanics: Understanding Crack Propagation and Interaction in Soil Failure applies the concepts of fracture mechanics to the interaction and propagation of cracks in clay soils. While the most widespread methods of modeling and analysis lead to more conservative and higher security factors, the understanding of fundamentals and correct application of this theory to soils leads to more reliable and cost effective designs for slope stability and earth dams.

Topics covered include fissures in clay and its mechanic characteristics, an examination of stress analysis data and modeling techniques using current computation tools, basics of laboratory testing of fissured clays, and case studies on soil failure and modeling methodology. This book will help geotechnical engineers and researchers gain a better understanding of soil applications of fracture mechanics, incorporate tools to better understand soil failure, and develop better, more cost-effective designs for earthworks projects.

• Explains how to apply fracture mechanics to soils
• Explores how to develop better designs and calculations for earthworks
• Teaches how fracture mechanics could lead to more cost effective projects
• Presents diverse cases where the technique could be applied to more precisely model soil failures