Advanced Rock Mechanics

Assessment of rockmass quality, Ground Response Curve, the observation method for tunnelling (NATM), rock mechanics for TBM tunnelling, underground geohazards related to high in situ rock stresses, rock support in difficult geological conditions, analytical and numerical stability analyses, rock mechanics in foundation engineering, excursions and project tasks. Focuses are put on applications of rock mechanical principles in engineering practice. Project tasks: group work, individual presentations and a group report.

The students have an overview of the areas where rock mechanical principles are applied for design and stability analyses. They learn skills for interpretation of mechanical phenomena during underground rock excavation and for stability analyses aiming to optimum design of underground openings. The student should master the use of subject-specific digital tools including programming where relevant (RS2 and Examine2D).

Lectures, guest lectures, excursion (8 hours) and self-study. The students work in groups on large project tasks. A joint report on the group project is submitted.