Reliability and statistics in geotechnical engineering / Gregory B. Baecher, John T. Christian.

Includes bibliographical references (pages [569]-591) and index.

Preface. Introduction Uncertainty and Risk in Geotechnical Engineering. Uncerttainty. Probability. Inference. Risk, decisions and judgement. Site characterization. Classification and mapping. Soil variability. Spatial variability within homogeneous deposits. Random field theory. Spatial sampling. Search theory. Reliability analysis and error propagation. First order second moment (FOSM) methods. Point estimate methods. The Hasofer-Lind approach (FORM). Monte Carlo simulation methods. Load and resistance factor design. Stochastic finite elements. Event tree analysis. Expert opinion. System reliability assessment. Appendix A: A primer on probability theory. References.

Probabilistic reasoning, statistical methods, and measures of engineering judgment are combined to develop a quantified approach for analyzing and managing risks in civil engineering systems and the applied earth sciences. The resulting risk analysis approach described in this book reflects an emerging trend in geotechnical engineering, natural hazards mitigation, infrastructure protection, and other civil engineering fields to directly and quantitatively deal with uncertainty. Reliability and Statistics in Geotechnical Engineering offers a much needed state-of-the-art reference for risk analysis in geotechnical engineering and geology. Integrating theory and practical applications, this book: <div> � Discusses the nature and philosophy of uncertainty in geological and geotechnical engineering. � Addresses fundamentals and limits of probabilistic and statistical methods in the geological and geotechnical context. � Develops statistical approaches to site characaterization decisions and for analyzing field and laboratory data. � Explains traditional and emerging risk analysis methodologies and provides guidance for their use. � Presents many applications of statistics, reliability, and risk techniques to practical problems. </div> Emphasizing both theoretical underpinnings and practical applications, this comprehensive text constitutes an invaluable reference for practising geotechnical engineers, geologists, university students, and civil engineers in general practice.