Integrated structural geology and engineering rock mechanics approach to site characterization

Abstract In line with the symposium theme of ‘Linking Science to Rock Engineering’, this paper presents an integrated structural geology and engineering rock mechanics approach to site characterization. Structural geology interpretation has much to contribute to the overall understanding of rock mass structure and site characterization for engineering design. This applies not only to rock mass geometry, rock properties and geological mechanisms, but also to the process of modelling and identifying the critical mechanisms for engineering project design. The approach is illustrated by three examples relating to rock properties, gold mine stability, and restoration of 6th century Buddhist monolithic cave temples in India.