CIVL4230
10 units
4000 level
Course handbook
Description
This course presents a comprehensive introduction to rock mechanics and its applications for civil and mining environments. The course is designed for future civil engineers who will work on projects in rock engineering. Major topics of the course include: introduction to rock structures, rock and rock mass properties, rock engineering for underground openings, and rock slope engineering.
Availability
Not currently offered.
This Course was last offered in Semester 2 - 2023.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Define the characteristics and the mechanical properties (strength and failure criteria) of rock mass, rock matrix and discontinuities.
2. Explain methods for in situ investigation and laboratory testing of rock matrix and discontinuities.
3. Use rock mass classification systems (RMR, Q, GSI).
4. Conduct rock slope stability analyses.
5. Analyse the stress distribution (isotropic, anisotropic) in situ and around an opening in rock (competent rock, jointed rock mass, blocky rock).
6. Propose designs of excavation supports.
Content
- Rock mass, rock matrix and discontinuities.
- Mechanical properties of rock matrix and discontinuities: deformability, strength and failure criteria.
- In situ investigation and laboratory testing of rock matrix and discontinuities.
- Rock mass classification (RMR, Q, GSI) and rock mass behaviour (incl. influence of discontinuities on strength, stress distribution and water flow).
- Rock slope instabilities: types, design and mitigation measures.
- Stress distribution (isotropic, anisotropic) in situ and around an opening in rock (competent rock, jointed rock mass, blocky rock), design of excavation supports.
Assumed knowledge
Content covered in courses CIVL1200 Earth Systems, CIVL2282 Introduction to Geomechanics (previously CIVL2280), and CIVL3280 Geomechanics 2.
Assessment items
Written Assignment: Assignment 1
Written Assignment: Assignment 2
In Term Test: Final In Term Test
Course outline
Course outline not yet available.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.