25 Best Books on Rock Mechanics

We have compiled a list of the Best Reference Books on Rock Mechanics, which are used by students of top universities, and colleges. This will help you choose the right book depending on if you are a beginner or an expert. Here is the complete list of Rock Mechanics Books with their authors, publishers, and an unbiased review of them as well as links to the Amazon website to directly purchase them. If permissible, you can also download the free PDF books on Rock Mechanics below.

1. Rock Mechanics

 
1."Fundamentals of Rock Mechanics" by J C Jaeger and N G W Cook
Book Review: The revised edition of this book encompasses numerous fresh chapters on various subjects such as wave propagation, subsurface stresses, poroelasticity, microchemical models of rock behavior, rock fractures, and several others. In addition, stress and strain concepts are also elaborated upon. This book is a valuable resource for geoscientists keen on structural geology, as well as mining, civil, and petroleum engineers. It presents a comprehensive and articulate understanding of rock engineering and mechanics concepts.

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2."Rock Mechanics and Design Structures of Rock" by Obert and W I Duvall
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3."Comprehensive Rock Mechanics" by J A Hudson
“Comprehensive Rock Mechanics” Book Review: This revised and updated book presents the latest theories and recent advances in rock engineering, with a strong emphasis on rock mechanics. It comprehensively covers every aspect of rock mechanics and engineering. The book is divided into chapters that address various themes, including fundamental analysis and design, rock testing and site characterization, excavation, support and monitoring, and case studies of surface and underground projects. It is an excellent resource for students, researchers, professionals, and engineers involved in rock research.

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4."Fundamentals and Applications of Rock Mechanics" by DEB DEBASIS and VERMA ABHIRAM KUMAR
“Fundamentals and Applications of Rock Mechanics” Book Review: This book offers a theoretical and practical perspective and provides up-to-date information on fundamental concepts of rock mechanics. The chapters are well-written and cover a range of topics, including the properties of rocks as geo-materials, weight-volume relationships of porous materials, rock mass classification, analysis of stresses and strains, natural and artificial supports, rock and rock mass failure mechanisms, and slope stability. The book is a valuable resource for professionals, as well as graduate and post-graduate students working in the field of rock mechanics.

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5."Design Analysis in Rock Mechanics" by Pariseau
“Design Analysis in Rock Mechanics” Book Review: This revised and updated book provides the latest information on rock mechanics and specifically focuses on the design of surface and underground rock excavation. It covers a range of topics, including rock slope stability, shaft and tunnel stability, and three-dimensional caverns. The book includes numerous numerical problems and exercises that illustrate design techniques and their practical applications. The latest edition also includes a chapter on the foundation of jointed rocks. This book is an excellent resource for students, researchers, and professionals working in mining, civil engineering, and applied earth sciences.

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6."Rock Mechanics in Civil and Environmental Engineering" by Jean-paul Dudt
“Rock Mechanics in Civil and Environmental Engineering” Book Review: This book is a comprehensive introduction to rock mechanics, presented in a clear and straightforward manner. The chapters are well-organized and provide detailed explanations of various topics, including rock mechanics theory, rock dynamics, rate-independent behavior, laboratory and field testing techniques, slope stabilization, and natural hazard management. It is a valuable resource for students of civil and environmental engineering.

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7."Rock Mechanics: For Underground Mining" by B H G Brady
“Rock Mechanics: For Underground Mining” Book Review: This book is focused on the latest theories and recent developments in rock mechanics for underground mining. The chapters are well-structured and cover a range of topics, including the mechanical properties of rocks, various techniques for analyzing rock stress, principles for determining rock mass load response, and methodologies for applying these techniques. Additionally, the book discusses the applications of these principles in the design of excavation for surface and subsurface construction, mining, and geothermal energy recovery. The content is complemented with numerous graphs, figures, and equations to aid in understanding.

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8."Rock Mechanics: For Underground Mining" by Brady
“Rock Mechanics: For Underground Mining” Book Review: The new edition of this book is a comprehensive update that covers recent developments in rock mechanics and rock engineering. It features the latest theories and practices in the field and has become an essential resource for many engineers. The book specifically emphasizes underground mining and its applications, showcasing the innovative practices in the mining industry. It is a valuable tool for researchers and professionals in civil, geological, and structural engineering, as well as geomechanics and other related fields that deal with rocks.

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9."Introduction To Rock Mechanics" by Richard E Goodman
“Introduction To Rock Mechanics” Book Review: This book presents the latest information on the fundamental concepts of rock mechanics from both theoretical and practical perspectives. It covers the basics of rocks with detailed theories, including topics such as rock classification and indentation properties, rock strength and failure criteria, planes of weakness in rocks, and rock deformation. The book also explores various applications of rock mechanics, including underground openings, rock slope engineering, and foundation engineering. It is a suitable resource for students, researchers, and professionals in the fields of mining, civil engineering, and applied earth sciences.

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10."Engineering Rock Mechanics" by John A Hudson
“Engineering Rock Mechanics” Book Review: This book on rock mechanics presents basic principles and key concepts that will be useful for students, researchers, and professionals in civil engineering, rock engineering, geology, structural geomechanics, and various other fields related to rocks. It delves into the fundamentals of excavation and how the principles interact with each other. The book also highlights the applications of the featured principles and concepts in various fields of rock engineering. The text has been certified by various international institutions and organizations, and is a rich source of information that reflects innovation in the design of structures related to rock mechanics.

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2. Elements of Rock Mechanics

 
1."Rock Mechanics (CISM International Centre for Mechanical Sciences)" by Leopold Müller and L Broili
“Rock Mechanics (CISM International Centre for Mechanical Sciences)” Book Review: This book is intended for mechanical engineering or mining engineering students as well as diploma and M.Tech students and geologists interested in the subject matter. Teachers who teach this course can also use this book as a reference. The book covers the basics of materials and rock mechanics and explains their use in the economic world. It also includes a detailed explanation of fracture theories and compares rocks from various sources using different systems. Various methods to test rocks are listed, and real applications are demonstrated through case studies from the early 2000s. In addition, the book discusses other rock properties and provides evaluations of rock systems. It also covers problems related to tunnels and slopes.

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2."Rock Mechanics: Theory and Applications with Case Histories" by Walter Wittke and Richard Sykes
“Rock Mechanics: Theory and Applications with Case Histories” Book Review: This book serves as a comprehensive introduction to the basics of rock mechanics and their practical applications in economic construction. It is intended for mechanical engineering and mining engineering students, as well as for diploma students, M.Tech students, and geologists. Teachers of this course can also use this book as a reference. The book covers the basics of rock mechanics, including models describing the mechanical properties and permeability of rocks. It also provides numerical methods to evaluate the stability of structures in rocks, and to solve specific problems related to tunnels, caverns, pressure tunnels, dam foundations, and slopes. The book also explains how to test rock mechanical properties and includes several case studies to help readers apply the content to their own work.

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3."Applications of Finite Element Methods in Rock Mechanics" by Mitri Hani S and Abdellah Wael R
“Applications of Finite Element Methods in Rock Mechanics” Book Review: This book is intended for mechanical engineering and mining engineering students as well as M.Tech students and geologists. The finite element method and its application in the field of geotechnical engineering with a focus on rock mechanics are explained in detail in this book. The book also explains commercially available programs for this purpose. The creation of basic finite element codes for stress and deformation analysis of solid structures is also discussed. The book covers various topics, including an introduction to numerical methods, displacement finite element method, equilibrium equations, elasticity relations, and formulation procedures. It further explains shape functions, stiffness matrix, load vector, and mesh convergence. Finally, isoparametric elements and numerical integration are explained.

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4."Modelling Rock Fracturing Processes: A Fracture Mechanics Approach Using FRACOD" by Baotang Shen and Ove Stephansson
“Modelling Rock Fracturing Processes: A Fracture Mechanics Approach Using FRACOD” Book Review: This book is designed for mechanical engineering or mining engineering students, as well as M.Tech students and geologists. It covers rock fracture mechanics and displacement discontinuity methods used for modelling geomechanical problems. The book employs FRACOD programs to analyse fracture problems, aiding in assessing fracture initiation and propagation in tension, shear, and mixed modes. Additionally, the book introduces the basics of thermomechanical and hydromechanical coupling and formulations of multiple regional mechanical, thermal, and hydraulic functions. It presents formulations that allow the analysis of fracture mechanics problems for structures composed of brittle, rock-like materials. The book also provides instructive examples of code verification and applications towards the end.

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5."Discontinuity Analysis for Rock Engineering" by S D Priest
“Discontinuity Analysis for Rock Engineering” Book Review: This book offers a comprehensive understanding of the analysis of rock discontinuities. It is intended for mechanical engineering or mining engineering students, as well as diploma students, M.Tech students, and geologists. The book provides an introduction to the basics of rock mechanics and its analysis. The mechanical properties and permeability of rock are described using various models. The book comprises 11 chapters, beginning with a discussion of discontinuities, followed by orientations and frequencies. The book ends with an explanation of discontinuity spacing and loading due to impounding, as well as an analysis of first filling.

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6."Boundary Element Methods in Solid Mechanics: With Applications in Rock Mechanics and Geological Engineering" by S L Crouch and A M Starfield
“Boundary Element Methods in Solid Mechanics: With Applications in Rock Mechanics and Geological Engineering” Book Review: This book is intended for mechanical engineering and mining engineering students, as well as diploma students, M.Tech students, and geologists in related fields. It can also be used as a reference by teachers. The book covers the boundary element technique with the help of images and includes listings of computer programs for three methods. It describes how a simple boundary element method is developed from the flamant solution and highlights the connection between solutions to simple and complex problems. Additionally, the direct and indirect methods for plane problems are explained towards the end of the book.

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7."Fundamentals of Discrete Element Methods for Rock Engineering: Theory and Applications (Developments in Geotechnical Engineering)" by Lanru Jing and Ove Stephansson
“Fundamentals of Discrete Element Methods for Rock Engineering: Theory and Applications (Developments in Geotechnical Engineering)” Book Review: This book is intended for students pursuing mechanical or mining engineering, including those in diploma or M.Tech programs, as well as geologists. It explains the basic concepts of discrete models for fractured rocks and constitutive models of rock fractures and rock masses for stress. Deformation and fluid flow are also briefly discussed. The book covers various topics such as distinct elements, discontinuous deformation analysis, discrete fracture networks, and particle mechanics. Emphasis is given to Cosserat representation of granular media, as well as models of rock fractures and fracture system characterization methods. The book concludes by highlighting the significant impacts on the performance and uncertainty of the DEM models.

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8."Advances in Rockfill Structures (Nato Science Series E:)" by das Neves and E Maranha
“Advances in Rockfill Structures (Nato Science Series E:)” Book Review: This book is intended for students pursuing mechanical engineering or mining engineering, as well as diploma students, M.Tech students, and geologists in the subject area. Additionally, teachers who teach this subject can use this book as a reference. The book presents the basics of the finite element method and geotechnical engineering, with a particular focus on rock structures. It comprises 13 chapters, beginning with an explanation of layers and analytical layers. The book goes on to discuss deformation, modelling compaction, and effective stress techniques for rockfill structures, and concludes with an explanation of loading due to impounding and analysis of first filling.

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3. Applied Rock Mechanics and Numerical Modelling

 
1."Numerical Modelling and Analysis of Fluid Flow and Deformation of Fractured Rock Masses" by Xing Zhang and David J Sanderson
“Numerical Modelling and Analysis of Fluid Flow and Deformation of Fractured Rock Masses” Book Review: The aim of this book is to delve into the application of advancements in numerical modelling to various systems, which can aid in comprehending the intricate phenomena exhibited by such systems. The book elaborates on the fundamental principles and practical techniques of numerical modelling, with a focus on distinct element methods. It elucidates the principles and methodologies of numerical modelling for several crucial problems, and also offers practical models, accompanied by comprehensive discussions on diverse topics.

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2."Numerical Models in Geomechanics" by G N Pande and S Pietruszczak
“Numerical Models in Geomechanics” Book Review: This book is a comprehensive guide that delves into the latest research and developments in the application of numerical methods to geotechnical engineering. The focus is on the constitutive relations of geomaterials, numerical algorithms, formulation, and performance. It provides a thorough understanding of modelling transient, coupled, and dynamic problems, and how to apply numerical techniques to real-world scenarios. This book is a valuable resource for students, researchers, and practicing engineers alike.

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3."Rock Mechanics and Engineering" by Xia-Ting Feng
“Rock Mechanics and Engineering” Book Review: The latest edition of this book offers a comprehensive and organized overview of recent advancements in rock mechanics and rock engineering practices worldwide. It not only covers the present state but also outlines the potential developments in these fields. The book is divided into five volumes, with each volume covering various subjects. These include fundamental principles, laboratory and field testing, analysis, modeling, and design. Additionally, the book explains topics such as excavation, support, and monitoring related to rock mechanics. This multi-volume book will be beneficial for engineering professionals and students interested in rock mechanics and engineering for many years to come.

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4."Fundamentals of Rock Mechanics" by John Jaeger and N G Cook
“Fundamentals of Rock Mechanics” Book Review: The latest edition of this book has been completely updated and offers a thorough introduction to the fundamentals of rock mechanics. It presents an expert discussion on the subject, beginning with an in-depth introduction and progressing to more advanced topics. The book includes new and significantly revised chapters on poroelasticity, wave propagation, and subsurface stresses. It also features new chapters on rock fractures and micromechanical models of rock behavior. Additionally, the book covers basic concepts such as stress and strain.

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5."Practical Rock Mechanics (Applied Geotechnics)" by Steve Hencher
“Practical Rock Mechanics (Applied Geotechnics)” Book Review: The purpose of this book is to offer a comprehensive introduction to project management, design, and construction processes. Additionally, it emphasizes the ways in which engineering geologists can contribute to the cost-effective and safe completion of projects. It includes chapters on various topics, such as geology for engineering and ground modelling, investigation and testing of geological materials, and geotechnical parameters. The book includes practical examples of case studies. It is a valuable resource not only for MSc level students of engineering geology and other geotechnical subjects but also for practicing engineering geologists and geotechnical engineers.

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6."Applied Salt-Rock Mechanics: The in-situ behavior of salt rocks" by C A Baar
“Applied Salt-Rock Mechanics: The in-situ behavior of salt rocks” Book Review: The focus of this book is on the inelastic in-situ behavior of rock salts and the principles behind it. The first few chapters discuss the geological aspects of salt deposits, including their genesis and geologic features, with particular emphasis on the geology of evaporite formation. The subsequent chapters elaborate on the physical and mechanical properties of salt rocks, covering creep, strain, hardening, tensile and shearing strengths, permeability, and plasticity. It also explains the mechanism of stress-relief creep that takes place in salt rock as a result of excavation. The book concludes with chapters that showcase stress-relief creep zones that extend to the boundary of interbedded formations that exhibit elastic behavior.

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7."Applied Rock Mechanics and Ground Stability" by Prof D H Steve Zou
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We have put a lot of effort into researching the best books on Rock Mechanics and came out with a recommended list and their reviews. If any more book needs to be added to this list, please email us. We are working on free pdf downloads for books on Rock Mechanics and will publish the download link here. Fill out this Rock Mechanics books pdf download" request form for download notification.

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