Course Objectives: - To investigate the mechanical behavior of rock masses and the analytical methodologies employed to characterize their governing parameters. - To develop an understanding of rock mass mechanics through theoretical frameworks and practical applications, with the aim of assessing their structural conditions. - To evaluate the stability and permeability of rock masses. - To examine the practical implications in geo-engineering, particularly in the exploration and exploitation of mineral resources, hydrocarbons, groundwater reserves, geological gas storage (CO₂, methane, hydrogen), and geothermal energy.
Course Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of geology (e.g., Earth's composition, rock classification, structural geology)
Teaching Methods
The course is structured with classroom lectures, complemented by several hours in the computer lab and field excursions to become familiar with data analysis and interpretation tools (survey techniques and data analysis/management software).
Assessment Methods
The in-depth assessment will be conducted through an oral exam, during which both theoretical and practical knowledge will be evaluated
Texts
- Fundamentals of Rock Mechanics of John Conrad Jaeger, Neville G. W. Cook, Robert Zimmerman ISBN: 978-0-632-05759-7
Contents
Course Topics 1. Definition of intact rock (rock matrix, rock mass, and discontinuities) 2. Mechanical properties of intact rock 3. Rock deformation structures 4. Rock discontinuities 5. Parameters for the characterization of rock discontinuities 6. Mechanical characterization of rock masses 7. Structural and geomechanical surveys of rock masses, including remote sensing techniques 8. In-situ stress state of rock masses 9. Groundwater circulation in rock masses 10. Principal failure criteria (e.g., Mohr-Coulomb, Hoek–Brown, Griffith) 11. Geomechanical classification and estimation of geomechanical parameters of rock masses 12. The use of stereographic projections for geological–engineering purposes 13. Applications (e.g., stability of rock slopes, tunnels, and engineering works)
