Course content

The course will discuss the key issues of rock slope stability analysis: 1) Definition of potential stability problem, 2) Quantification of input parameters and 3) Calculation principles. Focus is placed on: Factors influencing slope stability, methodology for collecting geological data, stereographic projection and analysis techniques, quantification and scale effects concerning shear strength parameters and ground water pressure, failure models, deterministic versus probabilistic analysis, stabilizing measures and stability control/monitoring. The course is organized as seminars, field and laboratory assignments and guided self study. Project reports to be prepared.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE: This course is intended to to bring the participants to a high international level in Rock Slope Stability Analysis. The students shall have in-depth knowledge of methodology for engineering geological investigations and stability analyses related to rock slopes.

SKILLS: The students shall be able to conduct specialized engineering geological field and laboratory analyses relevant for stability analyses of rock slopes.

GENERAL COMPETENCE: The students shall develop skills for independent evaluation and analyses of complex problems related to stability of rock slopes, as well as skill in multidisciplinary team work for solving such problems.

Learning methods and activities

The course is given every second year or as per the need. In general 2 or more students are required to run the course. In case there is a absolute need it may be considered to run the course for a single student.

The course is offered in English. Teaching will be in a form of guided self-study. The attendant shall write a review article in one of the selected topics. The topic must be approved by the convener of the course.

Further on evaluation

To pass the exam students much achieve minimum 70 percent (70 out of 100). Both the report and the exam must be passed to pass the course. Each part that has been failed must be retaken (report and/or examination).

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Should have taken either TGB4185 or TGB5110 and TGB4190 or equivalent.

Required previous knowledge

Completed MSc degree with advanced level knowledge of Engineering geology (corresponding to course TGB4190 Engineering Geology of Rocks, Advanced Course).

Course materials

Selected parts of Wyllie & Mah (2004): "Rock Slope Engineering", Spon Press, 431p. Selected notes and papers.

Credit reductions