Engineering and Mining Geology

Description

This course is a final year course aimed at synthesizing geological/geomorphological knowledge and skills for applications to Engineering Geology, a discipline concerned with site and foundation conditions, geological and geotechnical hazards affecting a particular development, and availability of construction materials. Civil site investigation practice involves evaluation using invasive techniques (drilling; trenching; etc) and non-invasive techniques (ground penetrating radar, MASW, cone penetrometer, etc.) that require careful consideration of the landscape, geological/geomorphic history and geological materials present. Mining Geology is concerned with all aspects of the mine life cycle, with geological input into exploration and resource estimation, mine design, processing, waste and decommissioning. All of these aspects are highly depended on the ore type, geological setting and geological materials present.

GEOL338 develops the basics of site investigation practice and extends into developing engineering geology models for surface and underground projects in civil and mining engineering applications. It then focuses on interpretation of geological data for applications to mine life stages through the development of geological models. Students completing the course will develop skills and knowledge of principles and practices in both engineering and mining geology. Students will also develop professional communication skills through group work and technical writing.