Approach of field tests and adjacent site investigations to improve the geotechnical site model and design of dams and underground structures

Examples of three case histories dealing with geotechnical site investigations specificly tailored for the relevant site geology and proper design and construction of large dams and underground structures are reported on. Soil and rock mechanics field tests and adjacent geological/geotechnical investigations are appropriate tools to yield realistic parameters of strength, deformation and stress properties of a rock mass. In view of Consulting Engineering, selected projects from Germany and abroad, realized in the meantime or presently under construction, were dealt with.