B8632 - COSTRUZIONI IN SOTTERRANEO M

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide the skills and methodologies for the design of underground constructions in soils and rock masses, covering principles for the design and monitoring of underground excavations and tunnels. Upon completion, students gain expertise in selecting appropriate techniques for underground works and develop competences for the design and the safety assessment of underground constructions.

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 an oral test, during which the theoretical aspects covered in the course will be discussed, and practical knowledge related to the exercises will be 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