4. Applications of rock mechanics

4.1 Geological and geotechnical model of the rock mass

In any rock mechanics project, the first step is to establish a geological and geotechnical model of the entire project. This is the aim of the rock mass characterization described in the previous sections. Bedrock characterization should result in a petrographic and structural description of the bedrock, as well as an assessment of its geomechanical and hydraulic properties. Finally, it should make it possible to :

• estimate the feasibility and optimize the positioning of a project on a given site with respect to geological, geomechanical, hydraulic and environmental conditions;

• identify and anticipate any potential geotechnical instability linked to a geological...