Course coordinator
Associate Professor Zhongwei Chen
Monday: 13:00 - 15:00
Friday: 9:00 - 12:00
Or email me at zhongwei.chen@uq.edu.au to arrange an appointment.ﾠ
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Mech & Mine Engineering School
Understanding of geomechanical behaviour of orebody and host rock is of critical importance to achieve safe and efficient mining operations and has become an integral part of a mine design and planning. As mines are getting deeper, the ground in situ stress and water pressure are also increasing, which requires more in-depth understanding of rock mass to address this emerging grant challenge in deep mining. This course provides students with a fundamental knowledge of rockmass properties, and with a practical understanding of the applications of geotechnical engineering principles in mining from the perspective of planning, design, and operations. This will enable students to understand and apply fundamental concepts and design methodologies to design safe excavations in both surface and underground mines.
This is a 2-unit course providing students with fundamental knowledge of geomechanics and then applying the relevant theories to conduct geotechnical investigations, assessment, and safety design of mining excavations.
The course comprises three modules:
(i) fundamentals of mining geomechanics, such as the mechanical properties and strength of intact rock and rock mass, and rock mass classification systems;
(ii) geotechnical challenges associated with open-pit mining, e.g., slope stability, monitoring and instrumentations, and instability forecast; and
(iii) geotechnical challenges related to underground mining operations (both hard rock and soft rock), ﾠsuch as rock reinforcement/support techniques, excavation stability, mine seismicity, caving mechanics, pillar design, and subsidence.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Students are assumed to have a good understanding and knowledge of the mechanical properties and strength of engineering materials.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
MECH2300 or CIVL2210
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
MINE3121 and MINE4120 and MINE3129
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
This course equips students with fundamental knowledge of intact rock and rockmass properties, along with practical understanding of the applications of geotechnical engineering principles in mining from the perspective of planning, design, and operations. This course enables students to comprehend and apply fundamental concepts and design methodologies to proficiently design safe excavations in both surface and underground mining environments.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Identify the key engineering properties and mechanical behaviours of a rockmass.
LO2.
Evaluate rockmass competence using relevant classification systems.
LO3.
Integrate rock properties in mining geotechnical designs.
LO4.
Apply stereographic projection techniques to assess the potential failure mode(s) of a slope.
LO5.
Calculate the factor of safety and probability of failure of a slope for use in design optimisation.
LO6.
Select appropriate real-time monitoring strategies for a slope.
LO7.
Apply constitutive models to analyse the stress distribution around excavation openings with different shapes.
LO8.
Evaluate excavation stability and utilise this information in design improvements.
LO9.
Assess caveability in block cave mining and stability in longwall mining.
LO10.
Identify common geotechnical risks associated with mining methods and develop a mitigation plan for each identified risk.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical/ Demonstration |
Rock mechanical properties testing
|
10% |
17/03/2025 1:00 pm |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Practical/ Demonstration, Project |
Slope stability analysis- field mapping
|
20% |
22/04/2025 1:00 pm |
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Essay/ Critique |
Core Geotechnical Risks Associated with Deep Mining
|
10% |
28/05/2025 4:00 pm |
| Examination |
Final Exam
|
60% Hurdle Rate: 40% |
End of Semester Exam Period 7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Rock mechanical properties testing
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Practical/ Demonstration
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
17/03/2025 1:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Longitudinal.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02
Task description
The prac will be held at lab 50-S107. Instruction on lab access will be provided when issuing the assessment.
The class will be divided into three groups of your choice due to space constraints in the lab. Please enrol in your preferred group as soon as possible. You only need to attend your assigned group.
Attending the lab prac is not compulsory, but strongly encouraged. For those who are unable to attend the practical session, the laboratory data will be made available on Blackboard to analyze and complete their reports. The submission due date will remain the same for everyone unless your extension request is approved by the university.
Other important information includes:
- Please read the practical handout prior to your arrival.
- Students must wear safety shoes and long pants.
- Gloves and safety glasses will be provided on the day.
- It is a condition of entry to practical classes that you have completed the Student Safety Declaration Form provided by a member of the teaching team before the class. When you arrive at the practical venue, it is also compulsory to sign in, and sign out as you leave the laboratory.
Five types of rock testing will be carried out during the prac, which runs for 1.5 hours or slightly over.
There will be three separate groups, and you can sign up for your preferred group via Blackboard. Please refer to Blackboard for a detailed marking criteria.
This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Submit via TurnItIn on Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
To facilitate timely feedback to students.
A Student Access Plan (SAP) can only be used for a first extension. Extensions based on an SAP may be granted for up to seven (7) days, or the maximum number of days specified in the Electronic Course Profile (ECP), if it is less than seven (7) days. Any further extensions will require additional supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Slope stability analysis- field mapping
- Team or group-based
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Practical/ Demonstration, Project
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
22/04/2025 1:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Longitudinal.
- Learning outcomes
- L03, L05, L06, L07, L08
Task description
This is an individual assignment. The class will be split into two groups, which you can enrol via Blackboard.
Field mapping practical will be conducted at the base of the Kangaroo Point cliffs. A map with the exact location and the details of requirements will be uploaded to Blackboard.
Attending the field mapping is not compulsory, but strongly encouraged.
When attending, you are required to wear steel-capped safety boots, long sleeves and long pants. You will not be admitted to the practical class if you fail to wear the prescribed personal protective equipment.
You are also advised to bring a clipboard, pencils and rubber, sunscreen and a hat.
Please refer to Blackboard for a detailed marking criteria.
For those unable to attend, please try to obtain the data from a classmate or contact Zhongwei for assistance.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance. A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Submit via TurnItIn on Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
To facilitate timely feedback to students.
A Student Access Plan (SAP) can only be used for a first extension. Extensions based on an SAP may be granted for up to seven (7) days, or the maximum number of days specified in the Electronic Course Profile (ECP), if it is less than seven (7) days. Any further extensions will require additional supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Core Geotechnical Risks Associated with Deep Mining
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation, Essay/ Critique
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
28/05/2025 4:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Longitudinal.
- Learning outcomes
- L03, L04
Task description
This is an individual assignment. Each student is expected to report a short essay to explain the key geotechnical challenges associated with deep underground mining, and how to mitigate such geotechnical risks.
Please refer to Blackboard for a detailed marking criteria.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance. A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Submit via TurnItIn on Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 14 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
To facilitate timely feedback to students.
A Student Access Plan (SAP) can only be used for a first extension. Extensions based on an SAP may be granted for up to seven (7) days, or the maximum number of days specified in the Electronic Course Profile (ECP), if it is less than seven (7) days. Any further extensions will require additional supporting documentation, such as a medical certificate.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
Final Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 60% Hurdle Rate: 40%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025
- Learning outcomes
- L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09, L10
Task description
The final examination will assess all material covered in lectures, tutorials and assignments.
This assessment task evaluates students' abilities, skills and knowledge without the aid of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT). Students are advised that the use of AI or MT technologies to develop responses is strictly prohibited and may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
Students must achieve at least 40% in the final exam in order to satisfy the identity verified assessment hurdle and receive a passing grade.ﾠ ﾠExam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - specified written materials permitted |
| Materials | One A4 sheet of handwritten or typed notes, double sided, is permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0 - 19.99 |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 2 (Fail) | 20.00 - 44.99 |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Fails to satisfy some of the basic requirements of the subject, or did not satisfy the examiner in all theﾠcomponents of the assessment. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 45.00 - 49.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: Falls short of satisfying all basic requirements for a Pass. |
| 4 (Pass) | 50.00 - 64.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Satisfies all of the basic learning requirements in all theﾠcomponents of the assessment. Demonstrates sufficient knowledge and abilities defined in the Aims of the subject to be regarded as competent in these areas. ﾠStudents must achieve at least 40% in the final exam in order to receive a passing grade.ﾠ ﾠ |
| 5 (Credit) | 65.00 - 74.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates the ability to use and apply the fundamental concepts and skills defined in the Aims of the subject, going beyond mere replication of content knowledge and skills. Must also show understanding of key concepts, with the ability to understand their practical applications or ability to demonstrate some originality in analysis or insight. Students must achieve at least 40% in the final exam in order to receive a passing grade.ﾠ |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75.00 - 84.99 |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates understanding and ability to apply the most important and deeper (or more subtle) aspects of the subject. This may include ability to solve non-routine problems and the ability to adapt and apply ideas to new applications. Students must achieve at least 40% in the final exam in order to receive a passing grade.ﾠ |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85.00 - 100.00 |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Demonstrates imagination and proficiency in all the learning objectives for the subject. Students must achieve at least 40% in the final exam in order to receive a passing grade.ﾠ |
Additional course grading information
Students must achieve at least 40% in the final exam in order to receive a passing grade.
To receive a passing grade, you need to (i) obtain at least 50% of the marks of an entire course, and (ii) achieve at least 40% in the final examination.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Additional assessment information
A failure to reference AI use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
Laboratory access
Students must have completed the Student Laboratory Safety Induction, Annual Fire Safety Training and Health Safety and Wellness (HSW) to a specific laboratory induction, all accessed via Blackboard.
If you require access for experimental work, then register for an induction by searching for that laboratory at the following link:
https://student.eait.uq.edu.au/urite/
Additional requirements to be inducted into each laboratory will be listed on that link.
Students can also check their HSW training card here:
https://student.eait.uq.edu.au/safe
Access to laboratories will be granted after all of the specific laboratory requirements have been met.
If you have any enquiries regarding HSW please contact the School’s Technical Services Team on labsupport@mechmining.uq.edu.au
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 |
Lecture |
Introduction to the course and rock characterisation Learning outcomes: L01 |
Lecture |
Geotechnical data collection techniques Learning outcomes: L02 |
|
Week 2 |
Lecture |
Mechanical Properties of Intact Rock Learning outcomes: L02 |
Practical |
Intact Rock Properties Measurements Assignment 1 Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Week 3 |
Lecture |
Rock mass classification systems and applications Learning outcomes: L03 |
Tutorial |
Rock mass classification systems Learning outcomes: L03 |
|
Week 4 |
Lecture |
Strength of Rock Discontinuities and Rock Mass Strength & Deformability Learning outcomes: L03, L04 |
Tutorial |
Rock Mass Strength & Deformability Learning outcomes: L03, L04 |
|
Week 5 |
Lecture |
Rock Slope Stability Learning outcomes: L02 |
Lecture |
Slope monitoring and remediation Learning outcomes: L02 |
|
Week 6 |
Practical |
Field Mapping at Kangaroo Point Assignment 2 Learning outcomes: L02, L05, L06, L07, L08 |
Week 7 |
Tutorial |
Dip Software Tutorial Learning outcomes: L02, L05, L06 |
Tutorial |
Slope stability calculation Learning outcomes: L02, L07 |
|
Week 8 |
Lecture |
Rock reinforcement and support- soft and hard rock Learning outcomes: L03, L10 |
Tutorial |
Rock reinforcement calculation Learning outcomes: L03, L10 |
|
Mid-sem break (21 Apr - 27 Apr) |
No student involvement (Breaks, information) |
Mid-Semeter Break- No Lecture |
Week 9 |
Lecture |
Excavation stability and spans Learning outcomes: L03, L09 |
Tutorial |
Excavation stability Learning outcomes: L03, L09 |
|
Week 10 |
Lecture |
Dynamic events: seismicity, rock burst, airblasts Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L10 |
Tutorial |
Mine Seismicity Learning outcomes: L03, L04 |
|
Week 11 |
Lecture |
Caving mechanics- hard rock Assignment 3 Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L10 |
Lecture |
Longwall Geomechanics and Subsidence Learning outcomes: L03, L04 |
|
Week 12 |
Lecture |
Pillar mechanics and design Learning outcomes: L03 |
Tutorial |
Pillar mechanics Learning outcomes: L03 |
|
Week 13 |
Lecture |
Course review Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05, L06, L07, L08, L09, L10 |
Tutorial |
Subsidence calculation and Q&A Learning outcomes: L03 |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.