ATTENTION: The Singapore Copyright Act applies to the use of this document.

Nanyang Technological University Library

CV6316

NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

SEMESTER 1 EXAMINATION 2013-2014

CV6316 – PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT OF UNDERGROUND SPACE IN

ROCK CAVERNS

Nov/Dec 2013 Time Allowed: 3 hours

INSTRUCTIONS

1. This paper contains EIGHT (8) questions and comprises THREE (3) pages.

2. Answer ALL questions.

3. This is an Open-Book Examination.

4. The questions do not carry equal marks.

1. Answer the following questions on underground space planning and design.

(a) Name at least five input parameters with examples for determining the
dimensions of underground rock caverns and tunnels.
(5 Marks)

(b) Name the main sources of moisture and the main limitation of using air-
conditioning for humidity control in underground facilities.
(3 Marks)

(c) What are the three main functions of ventilation in underground facilities?

(2 Marks)

2. Many factors affect the cost of underground cavern facilities. Discuss three
factors related to the geology and site conditions affecting the cost of
underground cavern facilities.
(5 Marks)

3. Borehole drilling and geophysical surveys are common techniques in site

investigations for rock cavern projects. Discuss three general principles in
planning the site layout for such investigation work.
(10 Marks)

1
ATTENTION: The Singapore Copyright Act applies to the use of this document. Nanyang Technological University Library
CV6316

4. Name and discuss three major geological hazards in underground rock

excavation, and their mitigation.
(10 Marks)

5. Within the context of project risk management, discuss the following:

(a) Why do geological uncertainties exist? (5 Marks)

(b) Discuss three common strategies for managing geological risks.

(10 Marks)

6. (a) Describe the functions of rock bolts in maintaining the stability of tunnel
roof. Draw sketches for illustration.
(7 Marks)

(b) Describe three types of rock bolts/cables. (6 Marks)

7. Briefly describe the two commonly used methods for predicting geological and
hydrogeological conditions ahead of the tunnel work face. Compare the two
methods. Briefly describe the commonly used method(s) for water control during
tunnel excavation. You can draw sketch(es) for illustration.
(12 Marks)

2
ATTENTION: The Singapore Copyright Act applies to the use of this document. Nanyang Technological University Library
CV6316

8. (a) Briefly describe the rock mass classification Q and RMR-system including
the parameters and the formula for calculating the index value.
(10 Marks)

(b) Borehole logging is given in Figure Q6 below. The following were also
observed.
• Two joint sets plus random joints
• Joint character: wall contact, smooth, undulating, slightly altered joint
walls; residual friction angle 25-30°
• Medium water inflow, many drippings
• Medium stress, favorable stress condition

Estimate the Q-value for the rock mass with conditions given above.
Convert the Q-value to the RMR index. Indicate the rock mass class in
both systems and estimate the deformability (Young’s modulus) of the rock
mass.
(15 Marks)

Figure Q6

END OF PAPER