Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

For students following PT MSc studies, modules containing background training in geomechanics and ground
characterisation should be studied prior to this module. For students following other programmes an equivalent
background in civil engineering, geotechnics or soil mechanics is required.

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

1. to introduce students to geological hazards and the description of geological materials in relation to the extractive and construction industries.
2. to enable students to apply their knowledge to a practical problem
3. to introduce the concepts and principles underlying the stability of rock structures
4. to introduce the techniques for analysis, design and stabilisation of rock structures

Module Summary:

This module develops a student's knowledge of geomaterials, their form and existence in the context of engineering applications in the extractive and construction industries. The focus is on the characteristic properties and behaviours of geological materials (predominantly rocks) in material and in mass form. The implications for applications in construction and for materials as a resource are explored. Particular attention is paid to the analysis and design of engineered rock structures with applications in civil engineering, quarrying and open pit mining.

Outline Of Syllabus

* lectures and laboratory practicals on aggregates (hard rock and unconsolidated)
* lectures and laboratory practicals on material and engineering properties of rocks and rock masses
* lectures and tutorials on stability of rock slopes and remedial measures for various applications; rock support; stability and support of underground openings; design and analysis for civil, quarrying and mining applications
* lectures on excavation techniques, reserve estimation and geohazards in excavation
* Field mapping and description of rocks, soils and groundwater features, relating to past industrial activity

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of this module, students will be able to:
* examine, evaluate, interpret and classify rock masses in the field in the context of investigation for engineering purposes and geological hazards (M2, M13)
* demonstrate, appraise and evaluate geological controls and variability in characteristics of mineral construction raw materials (M13)
* interpret data from a range of rock testing techniques and apply it to appraise rock materials and aggregates as well select
*appropriate tests to address the needs of particular applications in rock engineering (M1, M2, M4, M6, M9, M12, M13)
* compare, contrast and select appropriate hard and soft ground excavation techniques for shallow and deep excavations (M5, M7, M13)
* examine, interpret and evaluate both geometric and numerical data in relation to structurally controlled failures in rock masses (M1, M2, M3)
* develop and evaluate designs for stable engineering applications in rock masses including stabilisation and remediation techniques (M3, M5)

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of this module, students will be able to:
* apply a compass clinometer to the measurement geological data in the field (M12)

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The module is taught as an intensive block in order to provide an immersive learning experience with a flexible integration of lecture, tutorial and practical sessions. This format also allows part time and full time students and CPD delegates to attend. This is a module which focuses on practical applications. The module includes lectures to explain the theory, small group teaching activities to explain the practice and practicals to demonstrate laboratory techniques. Fieldwork is included to provide real-case examples of theory seen during the classroom sessions. It allows opportunities to practice skills and it relates directly to the assessment.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The exam addresses the learning outcomes relating to understanding the engineering properties and behaviour of rock, understanding and interpreting types of failures of rock structures, understanding techniques for stabilising rock structures, evaluating, analysing and designing for some types of failures in rock structures (before and after remediation). Particularly, it is designed to assess the individual student’s ability in analytical and mathematical methods.

The field exercise is intended to give students the opportunity to apply their knowledge and understanding and technical skills to a practical example. Working in groups, students need to synthesise their knowledge and understanding to apply the correct combination of techniques in the context of the questions asked and the site

General Notes

N/A