ROCK MECHANICS

GEOSCI/GLE 455

Principles of rock deformation, structures in layered rocks, structural analysis, intrusive structures. Lab: three-dimensional problems involving structural concepts; field trip.

GEOSCI/GLE 596

Observation, description, and prediction of deformation of geomechanical systems at depth, and the forces (stress) causing those deformations, relevant for petroleum/geothermal reservoirs and studies of earthquake mechanics. Emphasis on computational exercises using datasets from the petroleum industry and earthquake catalogues, as well as prediction of ground deformation.

GEOSCI 758

Addresses current topics and controversies on fault mechanics, earthquake physics, and the rock record of seismicity. Emphasizes critical reading and in-depth discussion of recent publications drawn from a variety of disciplines, including geophysical, geological, and geochemical studies and approaches.

GEOSCI/GLE 757

Experimental rock mechanics, rock mechanics apparatus design, static and dynamic rock friction, rate and state friction, crack phenomena and rock fracture mechanics, earthquake energy budget, elastic/viscoelastic/plastic behavior of rocks, engineering and geological applications. Knowledge of introductory rock mechanics [such as M S E/GEOSCI/​CIV ENGR/​G L E/​M S & E  474] required.

CIVENGR/GLE 434

Subsurface stress; rock failure criteria; openings in competent rock; openings in layered rocks; plastic behavior around openings in weak rock; stereographic projections and stereonet; block theory; rock bolts; stabilization methods and design.