History provides an understanding of the present and in a way, a guide for the future. The state-of-the-art is often referred to as a snapshot of the most significant works and contributions made in a field of study; In this case the focus is on Guatemalan geotechnical engineering. This study presents a comprehensive description of the different events that impulse geotechnical engineering in Guatemala.
As part of the description of the state-of-the-practice an investigation of the different human (engineers/contractors) and physical resources (laboratories/field equipment) and their capabilities are presented. An overview of the civil engineering programs is presented. Then, the advances in the graduate program in geotechnical engineering are discussed.
Select comprehensive case studies are presented. Project selection was based on relevance and project\u27s interest for geotechnical engineers. Privileged data and information, such as design, construction, and performance data are presented, giving a full range of point of views of the selected projects. Selected projects include topics such as slope stabilization, ground improvement, liquefaction, deep excavations, dams, grouting and foundations. A perspective on the quality of the solutions adopted in tropical and volcanic areas is discussed. For each case study, a review of the degree at which geotechnical engineering processes were followed: subsurface investigation, analytical or computational tools, empirical relationships, field testing, and/or measurement of performance (monitoring behavior). The study concludes by identifying the lessons learned; areas of improvement and recommendations in the different fields of education, resources, and practice --Abstract, page iii
