ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides information on the history of the construction of concrete dams, starting from ancient times until the beginning of the XXI century. It describes the layout of HPs with concrete dams. The book provides basic information on rock foundations, including the nature of rocks, their classification, physical and mechanical characteristics, and the effect of reservoirs on state of the rock foundations and concrete dams. It describes the features of connection of concrete dams with rock foundations, preparation of rock foundations, strengthening, and waterproof measures. The book provides basic information about hydraulic concrete and its physical and mechanical properties. It describes the loads and effects on the dam, including temperature and seismic effects, information on methods for dam analysis.
