The discrete element method can effectively simulate the discontinuity, inhomogeneity, and large deformation damage of rock and soil. It is widely used in both research and industry. Based on the innovative matrix discrete element computing method, the author developed the high-performance discrete element software MatDEM from scratch, which can handle millions of elements in discrete element numerical simulations. This book introduces the basic structure, modeling methods, numerical calculation processes, post-processing, and system functions of MatDEM, which applies the basic principles and algorithm of the discrete element method. It also presents several examples of applications in geological and geotechnical engineering, including basic geotechnical engineering problems, discrete element tests, three-dimensional landslides, and dynamic and multi-field coupling functions. Teaching videos and the relevant software can be accessed on theMATDEM website (http://matdem.com).

The book will serve as a useful reference for research and engineering staff, undergraduates, and postgraduates who work in the fields of geology, geotechnical, water conservancy, civil engineering, mining, and physics.

The geological (endogenic and exogenic) processes operating in interior and exterior domains of earth are bringing dynamic changes in the lithospheric and geomorphic terrains of this planet since its origin. The interplay of magmatic, tectonometamorphic and metallogenic processes is continuously evolving new continental and oceanic plates (blocks) enriched with magmatic plume and economic minerals. The diverging and converging margins of these blocks were stressed and formed orogenic mobile belts and mountains.

Dynamic processes in the Earth’s interior and on its surface can be described by geodynamic models. These models can be presented by a mathematical problem comprising a set of partial differential equations with relevant conditions at the model boundary and at the initial time. The mathematical problem can be then solved numerically to obtain future states of the model. Meanwhile the initial conditions in the geological past or some boundary conditions at the present are unknown, and the question of how to “find” the conditions with a sufficient accuracy attracts attention in the field of geodynamics. One of the mathematical approaches is data assimilation or the use of available data to reconstruct the initial state in the past or boundary conditions and then to model numerically the dynamics of the Earth starting from the reconstructed conditions. <...>

This book is intended to be a concise and comprehensive coverage of the key ceramic and glass materials used in modern technology. A group of international experts have contributed a wide ranging set of chapters that literally covers this field from A (Chap. 1) to Z (Chap. 10). Each chapter focuses on the structure–property relationships for these important materials and expands our understanding of their nature by simultaneously discussing the technology of their processing methods. In each case, the resulting understanding of the contemporary applications of the materials provides insights as to their future role in twenty-first century engineering and technology <...>

Groundwater is one of the most important renewable resources of the Earth and it occurs in many sites. Water in the form of rainfall and river or stream water penetrates the ground and moves through the pores of soils, rocks, and rock fractures and joints which are permeable enough to transmit water through them.

Metamorphic rocks make up much of the deeper parts of orogenic belts. The minerals and mineral assemblages present in these rocks contain information about the conditions of formation of the rocks. This information may be used to decipher parts of the tectonometamorphic processes that were involved in the formation of the rocks. The unravelling of the conditions of formation is therefore important if the tectonothermal history of an orogen is to be determined <...>

In nature, minerals are usually found in association, forming rocks. Ores are no exception: they are almost always composed of different species, forming intergrowths. The study, description and interpretation of these intergrowths is the objective of textural analysis and is very important for mineralogy, both from a scientific point of view (e.g. mineral genesis) and for a practical approach (e.g. mining exploration and minerallurgy).

The Geotraveller describes the geology of famous geosites and areas of archaeological and historical interest from the USA, Africa, and Europe. Geological descriptions are supported by simplified geological maps and colour photographs. Many of the geosites occur in national parks and  reserves, some of which have been upgraded to world heritage sites, while others are located in newly formed geoparks. A Geopark is a unified area that advances the protection and use of geological heritage in a sustainable way and promotes the economic well-being of the people who live there (definition from Wikipedia). There are Global Geoparks and National Geoparks. Many of the geosites not located in parks or reserves could be protected as areas of special interest. The creation of geoparks in areas of outstanding natural landforms is indicative of a growing interest in geological heritage and geotourism <...>

Standing on a rocky terrain, one may occasionally notice beautiful structures in rocks. The variety of geometrical shapes of the structures poses great inquisitiveness to an onlooker. What are these structures, how are these formed and what does their occurrence indicate are some of the questions that haunt his/her mind. Answers to these questions are hidden in a discipline of geology called structural geology, which encompasses the study of all aspects of the deformation structures such as their geometry, field relations, geographic distribution, genesis and related aspects. Since the structures in the context of structural geology are formed by deformation, these are also called deformation structures or tectonic structures. They occur on scales ranging from tens of kilometres to those that can be seen only under a microscope. Faults, folds and joints are some common examples of structures. Structural geology is closely related to another discipline of geology called tectonics, which includes deformation on a much larger scale, i.e. from regional to lithospheric. Structural geology and tectonics commonly go together and even overlap when studied on the same scale. Structures are sometimes associated with economic minerals and hydrocarbons. The type and orientation of structures are important in civil engineering work such as dams, tunnels and bridges. Structural geology has implications for academic, economic, societal and environmental aspects.

This chapter presents a panoramic view of the wonderful world of structural geology so that the reader systematically starts gearing up for an in-depth study of this discipline.

Mineralogy deals with the predominantly crystalline building blocks of the geologi-cal matter surrounding us, the minerals. Since this geological matter served as a natural environment for humans from the beginning of their existence as a habitat and source of raw materials, the study of minerals as raw materials, building materials, materials and jewelry has always been a vital necessity. Mineralogy from this point of view is one of the oldest sciences. The increasing production and use of technical materials led to the fact that the concept of minerals today has also been extended to synthetic products <...>