The course represents a link between the rock mechanics fundamentals and the rock engineering application. The course is based on the characterisation of rock materials and masses and on the solution of some typical conditions for surface-underground excavations, while the monitoring of natural - artificial structures is presented as a part of the design methodology in geomechanics.

The student will be able to define and obtain the main geomechanical properties of a rock material and of a rock mass as well. These elements contributes to understand their behaviour, which is fundamental for the solution of the practical problems in the geoengineering field, which is also developed in the course.

Basic knowledge of physics and mechanics, applied geology.

Fundamentals of elasticity in rock mechanics; stress and strain.
Rock materials and rock masses.
Geotechnical characterization in lab and in field.
Strength criteria and behavior of rock materials.
Geotechnical characterization of natural formations and behavior of rock masses.
Design methods in rock engineering.
Analyses of some geotechnical problems, such as the stability of underground excavation, surface excavation, application of limit equilibrium method, remedial works, mining problems.
Monitoring issues for rock engineering.
Classworks.

The course is based on lessons and worked examples during classworks. Some lab experience will be carried out in order to get some ability in practical testing operations.

The presentations of the lessons are loaded on the website. Class notes are fundamental for the student. Reference textbooks are presented and available for details.

During the course two written tests will be carried out (half of the course and end of the course)for the student self verification. A final oral exam (with solution of both written questions and 3 oral questions) is regularly scheduled during the exam sessions.