Advanced rock mechanics

Recommended Prerequisites

Engineering Geology, Continuum Mechanics.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes, where the concepts, principles and fundamental theories related to the behavior rock masses are presented with detail. Problems concerning the topics covered are proposed and solved.

Theoretical-practical classes where the students solve exercises from the unit’s practical material, with guidance from the teacher. This solution involves frequently the use of professional software as a learning aid and this has also the advantage of exposing the students to design tools that they will encounter on their professional practice. These classes include the preparation of a project, with tutorial guidance by the teacher.

Learning Outcomes

This curricular unit aims to transmit the fundamental concepts of Rock Mechanics, as well as application of the knowledge in the solution of practical problems.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

General concepts, fields of application of Rock Mechanics e its relationship with other subjects.
Rock matrix and rock mass, main structural types.
Physical characteristics of rocks, index properties of rocks.
Mechanical behavior of rock; strength and deformability; behavior models; experimental characterization.
Rock mass description, quantification and presentation of structural data.
Mechanical behavior of discontinuities; behavior models; joint specific tests.
Rock and rock mass classification.
Mechanical properties of rock masses; behavior models; strength and deformability of rock masses.
Hydraulic and hydromechanic behavior of rocks and rock masses; experimental characterization.
Factors influencing the in-situ stress state and its evaluation, existing tests with measurement of stress and displacements.
Rock Mechanics and protection of the environment.

Assessment Methods

Continuous
Project: 40.0%
Exam: 60.0%

Bibliography

Goodman, R. E. (1989), Introduction to Rock Mechanics, 2nd ed., Wiley, New York.

Hoek, E. (2007), Practical Rock Engineering

Hudson, J. ; Harrison, J.(1997), Engineering rock mechanics: an introduction to the principles, Oxford: Pergamon.

Hudson, J.;Harrison, J.(2000), Engineering rock mechanics: part 2. Illustrative worked examples, Oxford: Pergamon.

Vallejo, L. G., Ferrer, M., Ortuño, L. e Oteo, C. (2002), Ingeniería Geológica, Pearson Educación, Madrid.