Engineering geology of British rocks and soils : Lias Group

The report begins with an introduction and a detailed modern assessment of the geology of the
Lias Group in terms of both stratigraphy and lithology. The modern lithostratigraphy is placed in
the context of the old, and sometimes more familiar, usage. The next two chapters deal with the
mineralogy of a suite of samples collected for the project, and an assessment of the nature and
influence of weathering based on a detailed analysis of the Lias dataset held in the BGS National
Geotechnical Properties Database. The following chapters cover geohazards associated with the
Lias Group, and a brief overview of the wide variety of industrial applications for which the Lias
is well known. The geotechnical database forms the basis of the penultimate chapter,
geotechnical properties. The contents of the database are analysed, interpreted, presented in
graphical form, and discussed in terms of statistical variation and in the light of likely
engineering behaviour. The engineering geology of the Lias Group is discussed in the final
chapter, borrowing from the preceding chapters. A comprehensive cited reference list and a
bibliography are provided. In addition to the large number of technical data provided to BGS, a
small data set has been generated by BGS laboratories, particularly in areas where the main
database was deficient, and also in connection with associated BGS studies of the swelling and
shrinkage properties of the Lias Group.
The individual items of data making up the database are not attributed. However, the
contribution of a wide range of consultancies, contractors, authorities, and individuals is
acknowledged. It is hoped that this report will provide a source of useful information to a wide
range of engineers, planners, scientists, and other interested parties concerned with Lias Group
materials.
It should be noted that whilst quantitative technical data are included in this report, these should
not be used as a substitute for proper site investigation.