Project Info
New and Improved methods for rock excavation in mining and tunneling
Rennie Kaunda | rkaunda@mines.edu
This work aims to improve mechanical excavation of hard rock using microwaves. Efforts are being undertaken to advance methods and techniques for rock fragmentation globally. This work will help evaluate mechanical excavation in the mining and tunneling industries under a variety of ground conditions including hard rock, sensitive rock, or mixed ground conditions for different types of rock.
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More Information
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Grand Engineering: Restore and improve urban infrastructure
Student Preparation
Qualifications
The ideal candidate will be a self-starter and highly motivated, have an eye for detail and safety minded. A background in rock mechanics or similar previous projects is desired but not a requirement.
Time Commitment
40-50 hours/month
Skills/Techniques Gained
My overall objective with undergraduate student research is to train them to become better scientists and engineers with a high level of critical thinking leading to professional careers, graduate school or significant contributions in publishable work or technical presentations. Students will be encouraged to share research findings through posters, conference proceedings or other presentations and publications.
Mentoring Plan
I meet with each student at least once a week, where I interact with that student on an individual basis. I also hold weekly topical research meetings with my research group consisting of visiting scholars, PhD and MS students where undergraduates are encouraged to attend. Successful students will be mentored in data analysis, collection of rock samples, and sample preparation for the laboratory tests and thin section analyses. The students will gain invaluable field and laboratory research experience and training honing in on analytical skills, communication skills, and critical thinking.