Slope Stability and Stabilization Methods

Understand the fundamentals of both discontinuous and continuous geomechanics approaches to analyse rock and soil mass mechanical behaviour in stability problems. Acquire operative knowledge of quantitative slope stability analysis, and of stabilization methods.

Understand the fundamentals of both discontinuous and continuous geomechanics approaches to analyse rock and soil mass mechanical behaviour, with particular reference to slope stability problems. At the end of the course, students are expected to be able to: 1) select and apply the most appropriate mechanical behaviour laws, 2) assess strength and deformability of rock discontinuities, rock matrix and soil, 3) analyse excavation problems, 4) assess the level of safety of slopes in compliance with design standards, 5) use numerical codes for slope stability analysis, 6) assist engineers in planning stabilisation works. Students are also expected to master technical terminology to communicate to a professional standard, and develop, in addition to course-specific skills, problem-solving skills and the ability to tackle complex geomechanical problems.