Rock Mechanics Lab

After completion of the course student will be able to:

1. CO1Characterize Physical Properties of Rocks: Accurately determine fundamental physical properties of rock samples, including moisture content, porosity, and density, using standardized laboratory procedures (e.g., ISRM methods).
2. CO2Assess Rock Durability and Weathering Resistance: Evaluate the slake durability index of rock samples to predict their resistance to weathering and degradation in various environmental conditions.
3. CO3Quantify Rock Strength Parameters: Determine various strength indices of rock samples, including point load strength and Proto-Dyakonov strength, and interpret their significance.
4. CO4Measure Fundamental Mechanical Strengths: Conduct laboratory tests to accurately measure the uniaxial compressive strength, tensile strength (via the Brazilian method), and shear strength of rock samples.
5. CO5Analyze Rock Behavior Under Confining Stress: Perform triaxial compressive strength tests on rock samples to understand their mechanical behavior under simulated in-situ stress conditions.
6. CO6Apply ISRM Standards: Demonstrate proficiency in applying International Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM) standard methods for rock property and strength determination.
7. CO7Interpret and Report Experimental Data: Analyze experimental data obtained from rock mechanics tests, interpret the results, and present them in a clear, concise, and professional manner.
8. CO8Understand the Importance of Rock Properties in Engineering: Relate the determined physical and mechanical properties of rocks to their significance in various geological and geotechnical engineering applications.