Disasters like a dam bursting are hardly ever caused by inexact calculations, but by a failure to evaluate underlying geological phenomenon related to ground water, ground stresses, or the characteristics and variability of rock. Here for the first time is a comprehensive guide that applies the principles of rock engineering to a wide variety of engineering activities, including mining, foundation construction, excavation, tunneling, and oil and gas production. Written for practicing engineers, drilling technicians, mining professionals, geologists, and civil engineers, "Rock Engineering Applications" contains twenty-six comprehensive chapters that thoroughly explore rock materials, the environment in which rock engineers have to work, the techniques at their disposal, and a full range of practical applications, both at the surface and underground. More than one thousand references are included, as well as case histories, problems, and solutions.