- Docente: Alessio Mentani
- Credits: 6
- SSD: ING-IND/28
- Language: Italian
- Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
- Campus: Bologna
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Corso:
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in
Environmental Engineering (cod. 8894)
Also valid for Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Civil Engineering (cod. 0930)
Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Civil Engineering (cod. 6709)
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from Feb 18, 2026 to Jun 04, 2026
Course contents
Geotechnical description and classification of rocks:
Characteristics of the rock material; characteristics of discontinuities; engineering classifications of rock masses; use of stereographic projections in rock mechanics.
Strength and deformability characteristics of rocks:
Laboratory tests for strength and deformability; strength, deformability, and permeability of rocks, discontinuities, and rock masses.
Excavation and support technologies for underground constructions:
Excavation with drilling and blasting; mechanical excavation in rock and soil; support and reinforcement interventions; ground improvement for tunnel excavation.
Tunnel statics:
Circular tunnel in an elastic medium; tunnel of non-circular shape in an elastic medium; influence of elastic anisotropy of the ground; circular tunnel in an elasto-plastic medium; tunnel below the water table; analysis of face stability conditions; soil–lining interaction; stability condition checks.
Readings/Bibliography
Lecture notes and handouts will be provided.
Ribacchi R., Rotonda T., Graziani A., Boldini D., Tommasi P., Lembo-Fazio A. (2018). Meccanica delle Rocce. Teoria e Applicazioni nell’Ingegneria. Edizioni Efesto e Hevelius Edizioni.
Teaching methods
The course includes theoretical lectures and exercises carried out on the blackboard.
Assessment methods
The exam consists of a written test aimed at carrying out an exercise related to the design of an underground structure using the methods presented during the course. This is followed by an oral exam, during which the theoretical topics covered are discussed and the practical skills acquired are assessed.
Passing the exam will be granted to students who demonstrate mastery and practical skills regarding the key concepts taught in the course. A higher grade will be awarded to students who show that they have understood and are able to apply all course content, explaining it clearly, solving even complex problems, and demonstrating strong practical ability. Failing the exam may result from insufficient knowledge of key concepts, lack of mastery of technical language, or inadequate practical skills.
Office hours
See the website of Alessio Mentani