ABSTRACT
We have reviewed the fundamentals of stress distribution in soil and rock, and the behaviour of simple buried structures under static and dynamic surface loads. This survey, coupled with information on the major experi mental studies of the past 30 years, has been written to help the designer use a knowledge of the science of the subject to attack new problems. But under ground construction has, of course, been going on for countless centuries, and over this period a fund of experience has been accumulated. Much of this still forms the backbone of our design practice, particularly in the field of heavy tunnel linings, and although tunnel design has not been included in the scope of this book, an examination of safety in terms of load and strength factors should naturally start with this form of construction.
