Rock Mechanics

This course presents a review of solid mechanics. Strength, deformation, and failure criteria for intact rock, rock discontinuities, and jointed rock masses are fully discussed. Rock mass classification systems and their use in rock engineering are presented. Principles of groundwater flow and pressure distribution in rock masses are introduced. Methods of geotechnical data collection and use of stereographic projections in rock stability problems are explained. Students are introduced to analytical, graphical and computer methods of analysis for structurally controlled instability problems in rock slope engineering. PREREQ: ENGR 2076. (lec 3, lab 1.5) cr 3.