ROCK MASSES STUDY AND ROCK MECHANICS

The course is divided into two parts:

- Rock Mass Characterization, taught by Giovanna Pappalardo;

- Rock Mechanics, taught by Simone Mineo.

Knowledge and Understanding 

The Rock Mass Characterization module aims to provide students with a thorough understanding of rock masses and their components through geomechanical surveys and the calculation of the main geomechanical parameters. Students will acquire the ability to characterize rock masses, understand shear strength criteria for rock masses and their application in the design of engineering works, evaluate the effects of groundwater on both slope stability and subsurface infiltration, and develop the skills required to plan quarrying and extraction activities in rock masses.

The Rock Mechanics part aims to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the main physical and mechanical properties of rocks, their laboratory characterization through direct and indirect instrumental testing methods, and the techniques used for the measurement of geomechanical parameters. Particular emphasis will be placed on the stereographic projection of discontinuity orientation data in rock masses and on the use of specialized software applications for stability analysis.

Applying Knowledge and Understanding

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to independently plot discontinuity orientation data on appropriate stereographic diagrams and will possess the knowledge required to perform kinematic and stability analyses, as well as to conduct and interpret the principal laboratory tests on rocks. They will also be able to measure and interpret the physical and petrophysical properties of rocks and to apply geomechanical survey and classification methodologies to characterize the structure and behaviour of rock masses and assess their stability conditions.

Making Judgements

Students will be able to independently interpret information derived from rock mass surveys and laboratory tests, select appropriate methodologies according to the parameters and geological context under investigation, and critically analyse data and models.

Communication Skills

Students will acquire the ability to prepare technical documentation (reports and technical assessments) and to communicate the concepts covered in the course using appropriate technical terminology when addressing both specialist and non-specialist audiences. The oral examination will further contribute to the development of technical language proficiency and communication skills.

Learning Skills

Students will be able to independently expand their knowledge of the topics covered through further study of textbooks, databases, scientific literature, and relevant technical standards and regulations, as well as through insights gained from laboratory activities and any additional educational initiatives organized within the course.

The course is delivered through lectures held in the classroom and in the Laboratory of Applied Geology and Environmental Hydrogeology, supported by multimedia teaching materials (slides presented during lectures) and, where appropriate, supplementary handouts. The instructor will also present selected laboratory equipment used for the physical and mechanical characterization of rock specimens. In addition, the course includes group exercises in the classroom on stereographic projections and laboratory testing, as well as a practical exercise focused on the preparation of a geomechanical survey report. This report is based on field data collected directly by students during a field excursion. In the event that the field excursion cannot be carried out, the necessary data for the report will be provided by the instructors. This exercise represents an important opportunity for students to apply, in a direct and practical manner, the concepts acquired throughout the course. Practical sessions are also aimed at enhancing students' digital competencies, with particular emphasis on spreadsheet management and the use of specialized software.

If the course is delivered in blended or remote mode, appropriate adjustments may be made to the above, in order to ensure consistency with the syllabus

Attendance is mandatory, in accordance with the Academic Regulations of the degree programme.

Rock Mass Characterization Module

Course introduction; overview of the course organization and examination procedures; review and alignment of prerequisite knowledge.

Introduction to rock mechanics and its main fields of application.

Definition of a rock mass; description and zoning of rock outcrops.

Continuous and discontinuous media; scale effect.

Geomechanical surveys and rock mass parameters according to ISRM standards.

Geomechanical classification of rock masses.

Kinematic analysis according to the Hoek and Bray (1981) models.

Strength and deformability of rock masses.

Hydrogeology of fractured rock masses; assessment of permeability and groundwater pressures.

Influence of geological conditions and design geomechanical parameters for tunnels.

Engineering geology for quarrying and mining activities in rock masses.

Rock Mechanics Module

Course introduction; overview of the course organization and examination procedures; review and alignment of prerequisite knowledge.

2) Stereographic projections of geostructural data of rock masses and their interpretation.

3) Stability analysis using Markland, Matheson/Goodman tests, also through dedicated software.

4) Main physical parameters of intact rock and their laboratory determination: definition and methods for determining bulk density, true density, total and effective porosity.

5) Main mechanical parameters of intact rock and their laboratory determination: definition and methods for determining uniaxial and triaxial compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, axial and radial strains.

6) Hoek & Brown failure criterion and data interpretation using dedicated software.

7) Shear strength along discontinuities: definition of JCS, JRC parameters, and friction angle. Direct shear test (Hoek box), Barton’s criterion, Patton’s model.

2) Teaching materials (slides and handouts) will be made available on the Studium platform.

Learning outcomes are assessed through an oral examination consisting of questions covering the course syllabus. The examination is conducted jointly with the Rock Mass Characterization module and covers the contents of both modules. Candidates may be required to submit a written assignment in advance (a report or slide presentation based on a geomechanical survey), to be sent by email to both instructors a few days prior to the scheduled examination date. The content and structure of the assignment, which will be discussed by the student with the examination committee during the oral exam, constitute relevant elements for the overall assessment. A negative evaluation of the assignment by the committee does not preclude admission to the oral examination. The final grade will reflect a balanced overall evaluation of the candidate’s theoretical knowledge, synthesis abilities, and clarity of presentation, as well as their capacity to establish connections among the topics addressed during the examination. Consideration will also be given to the student’s commitment, consistency, and engagement throughout the course lectures. During the examination, candidates may be asked to write down relevant formulas and/or to sketch by hand applied concepts, such as stereographic projections of geostructural data, stereonets related to kinematic analysis and Markland tests, as well as diagrams and graphs from laboratory tests.

The course also includes classroom exercises on stereographic projections and practical laboratory activities.

Information for Students with Disabilities and/or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD): in order to ensure equal opportunities and compliance with current legislation, students with disabilities and/or specific learning disorders (SLD) may request an individual meeting with the instructor to discuss and arrange any necessary compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, taking into account the learning objectives of the course and the student's specific needs.

Students may also contact the Department’s CInAP representative, Gabriele Lanzafame (https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti).