Geotechnical engineering is the branch of
civil engineering concerned with the engineering behavior of
earth materials. Geotechnical engineering is important in civil engineering, but also has applications in
military,
mining,
petroleum and other
engineering disciplines that are concerned with construction occurring on the surface or within the ground. Geotechnical engineering uses principles of
soil mechanics and
rock mechanics to investigate subsurface conditions and materials; determine the relevant physical/mechanical and chemical properties of these materials; evaluate
stability of natural slopes and man-made soil deposits; assess risks posed by site conditions; design
earthworks and structure
foundations; and monitor site conditions, earthwork and foundation construction.