ROCK MASSES STUDY AND ROCK MECHANICS

The course is structured into two sub-modules:

The Rock Mass Study module (Instructor: Prof. Giovanna Pappalardo) aims to provide knowledge of rock masses and their components through geomechanical surveying and calculation of the main parameters. Students will acquire the ability to characterize rock masses, knowledge of shear strength criteria in rock masses and their applications in engineering design, and the ability to assess the effects of water both on stability and as infiltration into the subsurface. Furthermore, students will develop skills to plan extraction activities in rock masses.

The Rock Mechanics module (Instructor: Prof. Simone Mineo) aims to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the main physical and mechanical properties of rocks and their laboratory characterization through direct and indirect instrumental tests. Particular emphasis will be placed on the stereographic projection of discontinuity orientation data in rock masses and on the use of computer applications for stability analysis.

At the end of the course, students will be able to plot discontinuity orientation data on specific diagrams and will possess the knowledge required for kinematic analysis, as well as for performing and interpreting the main laboratory tests on rock.

Specifically, with reference to the so-called Dublin Descriptors, the course aims to provide the following knowledge and skills:

Knowledge and understanding
Knowledge of the main phenomenological aspects of rock mechanics and understanding of their technical and practical applications.

Applying knowledge and understanding
Ability to distinguish the purposes of different laboratory tests according to the required objectives, and to understand the geomechanical framework of studied rock masses.

Making judgements
Ability to independently interpret information obtained from rock mass surveys and laboratory tests.

Communication skills
Ability to clearly explain the covered concepts using appropriate terminology to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Learning skills
Ability to learn the concepts covered in the course, necessary to undertake further studies with a high degree of autonomy.

Teaching is generally delivered through lectures held in the classroom and in the Applied Geology and Environmental Hydrogeology Laboratory, with the support of multimedia materials (slides presented during lectures) and any additional handouts. The instructor will also demonstrate some of the laboratory equipment used for the physical and mechanical characterization of rock specimens.

A practical exercise is also planned, involving the preparation of a geomechanical survey report based on data directly collected by students in the field during an educational excursion. If the field trip cannot be carried out, the data for the report will be provided by the instructors. This exercise represents a valuable opportunity for students to personally and directly apply the knowledge acquired during the course.

Attendance at lectures is mandatory in accordance with the academic regulations.

For working students, reference should be made to the academic regulations.

Information for students with disabilities and/or Specific Learning Disorders (SLD):

To ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with current legislation, students concerned may request a personal meeting with the instructor to arrange any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures, based on the learning objectives and their specific needs. Students may also contact the CInAP (Centre for Active and Participatory Inclusion – Services for Disabilities and/or SLD) representative for our Department, Prof. Giorgio De Guidi.

Rock Mass Study Module

1. Introduction to the course; overview of teaching organization; examination methods.

2. Introduction to rock mechanics and main fields of application.

3. Definition of rock mass, description and zoning of outcrops.

4. Continuous and discontinuous media, scale effect.

5. Geomechanical survey and rock mass parameters according to ISRM.

6. Geomechanical classification of rock masses.

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

8. Strength and deformability of rock masses.

9. Hydrogeology of fractured rocks; evaluation of permeability and water pressures.

10. Influence of geological conditions and geomechanical design parameters in tunnels.

11. Geology for extraction activities in rock masses.

Rock Mechanics Module

1. Stereographic projections of geostructural data of rock masses and their interpretation.

2. Stability analysis using Markland, Matheson, and Goodman tests, also through dedicated software.

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

4. 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.

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

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

7. Rockfall Trajectory simulation

Learning assessment is conducted in person through an oral examination based on questions covering the entire course programme. Candidates are required to submit a written report (geomechanical survey report; see “Teaching Methods”) via email to both course instructors a few days prior to the scheduled examination date. The content and structure of the report, which will be discussed by the student with the examination committee during the oral exam, constitute important elements of the assessment. A negative evaluation of the report by the committee does not preclude the possibility of taking the exam. The final grade will represent a balanced synthesis of the student’s preparation and demonstrated abilities in synthesis, presentation, and integration during the examination. Consideration will also be given to the student’s commitment, consistency, and interest shown during lectures.

During the examination, students may also be required to write down formulas studied or to freehand sketch certain applied concepts (e.g. stereographic projections of geostructural data, stereonets with examples of kinematic analysis and Markland tests, diagrams, and test graphs).

An in-course assessment is also planned, involving exercises on stereographic projections.