Assignment no.

2
Rock Engineering
2 Marks Questions (7 Questions)
1. What is Slope Mass Rating (SMR) in slope stability analysis?
o Slope Mass Rating (SMR) is an adaptation of the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) system,
specifically modified for assessing slope stability. It incorporates the basic RMR
value and adjusts it based on the orientation of discontinuities relative to the slope.
The SMR helps in categorizing slopes into different stability classes, such as stable,
partially stable, or unstable.
2. Explain the Geological Strength Index (GSI).
o The Geological Strength Index (GSI) is a system used for estimating the mechanical
properties of rock masses. It is based on the visual assessment of the rock mass
structure and surface conditions of discontinuities. GSI values help determine the
strength and deformability of the rock mass, providing a more intuitive and
straightforward approach for field use.
3. What is the purpose of a uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) test?
o The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) test measures the maximum compressive
stress a rock specimen can withstand before failure. It is a fundamental test for
assessing the strength characteristics of rock and is used to classify rocks and
estimate their load-bearing capacity in construction projects, such as tunnels and
foundations.
4. What does the Brazilian tensile test measure?
o The Brazilian tensile test measures the indirect tensile strength of a rock by
applying diametral compressive stress to a cylindrical rock specimen. The tensile
strength is important for evaluating the rock's stability, as rocks generally exhibit
much lower tensile strength compared to compressive strength.
5. Describe the Slake Durability Index test.
o The Slake Durability Index test assesses the resistance of rock to disintegration
when subjected to repeated wetting and drying cycles. It is particularly used for
evaluating the durability of weak or weathered rocks, such as shales, and provides
an indication of how well the rock will hold up in various environmental conditions.
 6. What is a point load test, and why is it performed?
o The point load test is used to determine the strength index of a rock specimen by
applying a concentrated load through pointed platens until failure occurs. It
provides a quick and economical means of estimating the uniaxial compressive
strength of rocks and is useful in preliminary assessments of rock quality.
7. How is specific gravity determined for rock samples, and what does it indicate?
o Specific gravity is determined by measuring the weight of a rock sample in air and
its weight in water. It indicates the density of the rock relative to water, providing
insights into the mineral composition and porosity of the rock, which are important
for various engineering applications.

7 Marks Questions (5 Questions)

1. Explain the significance of Slope Mass Rating (SMR) in slope stability analysis.
o Slope Mass Rating (SMR) is crucial for assessing the stability of rock slopes:
1. Modified from RMR: It is an extension of the Rock Mass Rating system
adapted for slopes.
2. Discontinuity Orientation Influence: Accounts for the orientation of
discontinuities relative to the slope face.
3. Adjustment Factors: Considers adjustment based on joint-slope
relationships.
4. Failure Modes Identification: Helps identify potential failure modes such
as planar, wedge, or toppling.
5. Stability Classification: Provides a classification for slope stability from
stable to very unstable.
6. Slope Support Guidelines: Assists in designing appropriate slope
stabilization measures.
7. Field Applicability: Easily implemented in the field for preliminary
analysis.
8. Influence of Slope Height and Joint Condition: Considers these factors
for comprehensive assessment.
2. List the laboratory tests conducted to determine mechanical properties of rocks and
explain their significance.
o Important laboratory tests for rock properties include:
1. Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) Test: Measures compressive
strength of intact rock.
2. Point Load Test: Quick estimation of rock strength, suitable for field
conditions.
3. Brazilian Tensile Test: Evaluates tensile strength, crucial for understanding
fracture propagation.
4. Slake Durability Index Test: Assesses resistance to weathering and cyclic
wetting/drying.
5. Specific Gravity Test: Determines density and water absorption.
6. Triaxial Test: Measures shear strength under varying confining pressures.
7. Flexural Strength Test: Assesses the bending strength of rock.
8. Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test: Estimates dynamic elastic properties of
rock.
3. Discuss the Geological Strength Index (GSI) and its importance in rock engineering.
o The GSI is a key parameter for rock mass characterization:
1. Describes Rock Mass Quality: Uses visual assessment of rock mass
structure.
2. Accounts for Joint Condition: Evaluates surface condition and roughness.
3. Estimates Strength and Deformability: Used in calculations of rock mass
mechanical properties.
4. Simplifies Classification: Provides an intuitive approach for fieldwork.
5. Links to Hoek-Brown Failure Criterion: Used in empirical calculations
for rock strength.
6. Influences Engineering Design: Essential for designing tunnels, slopes,
and foundations.
7. Wide Range of Rock Types: Applicable to different geological settings.
8. Impact on Support Design: Helps in selecting appropriate rock support
measures.
4. Explain the procedure and significance of the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS)
test for rock samples.
o The UCS test procedure and its significance:
1. Specimen Preparation: Cylindrical specimens are prepared according to
standards.
2. Loading Application: A compressive force is applied axially until failure.
3. Strength Calculation: UCS is calculated from the peak load and specimen
dimensions.
4. Rock Classification: UCS values help classify rock into different strength
categories.
5. Influence on Design: Determines load-bearing capacity for tunnels, dams,
and foundations.
6. Correlations with Other Properties: UCS is used to estimate other
properties like tensile strength.
7. Consistency Check: Repeated tests ensure data accuracy.
8. Geotechnical Modelling: Provides input for numerical simulations.

5. Describe the Brazilian tensile test and its role in assessing rock properties.
o The Brazilian tensile test provides important tensile strength data:
1. Indirect Tensile Test: Measures tensile strength using diametral
compression.
2. Specimen Configuration: Uses cylindrical specimens placed horizontally.
3. Load Application: Load is applied along the diameter until the specimen
splits.
4. Failure Observation: Tensile failure occurs perpendicular to loading
direction.
5. Significance in Engineering: Helps understand tensile failure
mechanisms.
6. Correlations: Often used to estimate rock's tensile behavior from
compressive data.
7. Role in Fracture Analysis: Important for fracture propagation studies.
 8. Practical Applications: Useful for evaluating stability in slopes and
underground excavations.

15 Marks Questions (3 Questions)

1. Discuss the various slope stability analysis techniques with a focus on Slope Mass
Rating (SMR) and Continuous Slope Mass Rating (CSMR).
o Techniques for slope stability analysis:
1. Geotechnical Analysis Methods: Include limit equilibrium, numerical
modeling.
2. Empirical Methods: Use rock mass classifications for initial assessment.
3. Slope Mass Rating (SMR): Adjusts RMR for slope applications.
4. SMR Calculation: Involves basic RMR, adjustment factors for joint
orientation.
5. Adjustment Factors: Depend on joint-slope relationship (parallel,
perpendicular).
6. Slope Condition Factors: Modify SMR for slope height and failure
conditions.
7. Classification System: Ranges from stable to very unstable.
8. Continuous Slope Mass Rating (CSMR): A variation of SMR for
continuous assessment.
9. Field Application: Used for rapid slope evaluations.
10. Comparison to Other Methods: Like Hoek-Brown or finite element.
11. Software Tools: Aid in implementing SMR/CSMR.
12. Integration with Geological Data: Uses field observations.
13. Role in Rockfall Analysis: Identifies potential rockfall sources.
14. Stabilization Design Guidelines: Provides support recommendations.
15. Use in Mining and Civil Engineering: Common for cut slopes.
16. Combination with Numerical Methods: Enhances accuracy.
17. Joint Condition Sensitivity: Strong influence on SMR results.
18. CSMR Adaptability: Suited for complex geological conditions.
19. Correlation with Real-world Failures: Empirically validated.
 20. Limitation Considerations: Less accurate for highly complex structures.
2. Explain in detail the various laboratory tests for determining the mechanical
properties of rocks, focusing on UCS, point load test, Brazilian tensile test, specific
gravity, and Slake durability index.
o Laboratory tests are vital for characterizing rock strength:
1. Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS): Measures axial strength.
2. Specimen Preparation: Cylindrical samples, uniform size.
3. Testing Setup: Compression machine with axial loading.
4. Data Analysis: Stress vs. strain curve.
5. Point Load Test: Alternative strength estimation.
6. Field Applicability: Can be performed in situ.
7. Brazilian Test: Measures indirect tensile.
8. Split Cylinder Configuration: Evaluates fracture properties.
9. Specific Gravity Test: Density and mineralogical insight.
10. Water Immersion Method: Displaces water.
11. Correlation with Porosity: Density relationship.
12. Slake Durability Index: Weathering resistance.
13. Repetitive Cycles: Wetting and drying.
14. Weight Retention Calculation: Durability percentage.
15. Influence of Mineralogy: Composition effects.
16. Microstructural Impact: Pores and fractures.
17. Role in Geotechnical Design: Impacts stability analysis.
18. Applications in Different Climates: Environmental effects.
19. Relationship with Strength Tests: Complementary data.
20. Standard Testing Procedures: ASTM guidelines.
3. Discuss the Geological Strength Index (GSI) and its role in rock mechanics, including
the method of estimation, parameters considered, and its application in civil and
mining engineering.
o The GSI plays a fundamental role in rock mechanics:
1. Origin: Developed by Hoek and Brown.
2. Empirical Nature: Based on observations.
3. Assessment Criteria: Rock structure and surface conditions.
4. Joint Orientation Consideration: Impacts stability analysis.
5. Scale Independence: Suitable for various project sizes.
6. Relation to UCS and Deformation Modulus: Calibration needed.
7. Hoek-Brown Criterion Adaptation: Used for failure prediction.
8. Simplified Rock Mass Quality: Field-friendly.
9. Adjustments for Weathering: Influence of degradation.
10. Parameter Variability: Joint roughness, spacing.
11. GSI Charts for Estimation: Visual aid.
12. Correlation with Other Indexes: RMR and Q-system.
13. Mining Applications: Tunnel, shaft stability.
14. Slope Engineering: Evaluation of rock cuts.
15. Hydropower Projects: Dam foundations.
16. Input for Numerical Models: Simulation accuracy.
17. Sensitivity Analysis: Impact on design safety.
18. Use in Seismic Regions: Earthquake considerations.
19. Empirical Limitations: Requires experience.
20. Integration with Laboratory Data: Validates estimates.