* Historical development of rock mechanics
* Basic equations from solid mechanics
* Distribution of rocks on Indian mainland
* Stereographic presentation of geological data
* Laboratory testing of rocks
* Strength, modulus and stress-strain responses of rocks
* Engineering classification of rocks and rock masses
* In situ geophysical methods
* Electrical resistivity method for ground characterization
* Deformability tests in rock
* Field shear test
* Hydraulic fracture method to determine in situ stresses
* Field permeability test
* Estimation of stresses in rock mass
* Stability of rock slopes
* Rock foundations
* Closed form solutions for underground openings
* Convergence confinement analysis
* Rock loads from empirical methods
* Design of supports empirical approaches
* Numerical methods and applications
* Equivalent continuum modelling of jointed rock mass
* Geomechanical modelling and application
* Drilling and blasting for underground and open excavations
* Roadheader selection for tunnelling
* Application of tunnel boring machines
* Shotcreting, including some case histories
* Methods to improve rock mass responses

With the ever increasing developmental activities as diverse as the construction of dams, roads, tunnels, underground powerhouses and storage facilities, petroleum exploration and nuclear repositories, a more comprehensive and updated understanding of rock mass is essential for civil engineers, engineering geologists, geophysicists, and petroleum and mining engineers. Though some contents of this vast subject are included in undergraduate curriculum, there are full-fledged courses on Rock Mechanics/Rock Engineering in postgraduate programmes in civil engineering and mining engineering. Much of the material presented in this book is also taught to geology and geophysics students. In addition, the book is suitable for short courses conducted for teachers, practising engineers and engineering geologists."--Back cover