Engineering geological investigations for the foundations of large structuresExamples of a concrete dam and a long bridge, in Portugal

摘要

Large structures to be safe require adequate foundations which implies a good knowledge of the geological and geotechnical conditions of the respective ground. In general, that is only possible through engineering geological studies which include proper site investigation techniques, adapted to the nature of the ground (rock mass or soil) and to the associated engineering problems. The paper illustrates the studies carried out for the design of the foundations of Ribeiradio 76 m high concrete gravity dam in a difficult rock mass and of Vasco da Gama Bridge, 13 km long, crossing the Tagus river in Lisbon, Portugal, through piles 75 m deep.