This course introduces fundamentals of rock mechanics and its application to surface and subsurface engineering practice, emphasising: (i) introduction to the characteristics and the nature of rock mechanics; (ii) hydrogeology of rock masses; (iii) philosophy of rock engineering design; (iv) applications of rock mechanics in civil and renewable energy engineering projects (e.g., rock slope stability, geological disposal of radioactive wastes, geothermal energy, mineral resources extraction). It also includes a series of practical sessions which allow students to familiarise themselves with subject.

2 lectures per week, a variety of practical sessions

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80% Written Exam

20% Practical Skills Assignment

The aims of this course are to:

■ convey a thorough grounding in rock mechanics as it relates to civil engineering and renewable energy; 

■ explain and practise the engineering description of rocks and rock masses; 

■ equip students with basic quantitative methods for analysing rock slope instabilities; 

■ introduce skills in rock reinforcement strategy and its low-carbon solutions;

■ apply principles of rock mechanics in subsurface renewable energy engineering.

By the end of the course students will be able to:

■ define the fundamental characteristics and mechanical properties of rocks, rock masses, and discontinuities

■ conduct rock slope stability analysis using quantitative approaches;

■ deduce likely groundwater flow in the underground projects;

■ calculate and map stress redistribution, excavation damaged zone in relation to underground excavation;

■ design preliminary rock reinforcement in fractured rocks;

■ analyse the mechanism of the formation of enhanced geothermal reservoirs.