Office of the Registrar | +1.902.494.2450

Civil and Resource Engineering

Civil Engineering

Mineral Resource Engineering


Main Office
Location: D Building, Room D215
Telephone: (902) 494-3960
Fax: (902) 494-3108
Email: cregrad@dal.ca
Website: http://civilandresource.engineering.dal.ca
Mineral Resource Office
Location: G Building, Room G212
Telephone: (902) 494-3960
Fax: (902) 425-1037
Email: cregrad@dal.ca

Department Head

Lake, C., BEng (TUNS), PhD (UWO), PEng

Professor Emeritus

Jaeger, L.G., BA, MA (Cantab), PhD (London), DSc (London), DEng (Carleton, Memorial, TUNS)(hc), PEng

Professors

Ali, N.A., BSc (Baghdad), MSc, PhD (N. Carolina State), PEng. U.G. Program Chair Civil Program. Flexible pavement, highways, pavement design and performance, transportation
Corbin, S.F., BEng, MASc (TUNS), PhD (McMaster), PEng. Mineral processing, structure and properties of eng. materials, physical metallurgy, materials characterization techniques (XRD, SEM, TEM) and materials and manufacturing.
Fenton, G.A., BEng., MEng. (Carleton), M.A., PhD, (Princeton), PEng, cross-appointment with the Engineering Mathematics Department
Gagnon, G.A., BScE (Guelph), PhD (Waterloo), PEng, Associate Director, Centre for Water Resources Studies. Cross-appointment with the School for Resource and Environmental Studies. Water and wastewater treatment, water quality, environmental engineering
Liu, L., BSc (Nankai), MSc (Peking), PhD (Regina). Graduate Coordinator. Geo-Environmental engineering, environmental engineering, environmental modelling and decision-making
Newhook, J.P., BEng, MASc, PhD (TUNS), PEng. Director, Centre for Innovation in Infrastructure. Fibre reinforced polymers, concrete, bridge engineering, structural health monitoring, design and analysis.
Satish, M. G., BSc, BECivEng (My.), MEng, PhD (Concordia), PEng. Water resources engineering, numerical modeling of flows, system optimization, open channel flow
Taheri, F., BEng, MASc, PhD (TUNS), PEng. Acting Director for Ocean Research Ctr. Atl. Cross-appointment with the department of Materials Engineering. Advanced composite materials, finite element methods (elastic, plastic), fracture mechanics and fatigue, impact and stability of structures
Zou, D.H., BSc (CUMT, China), PhD (UBC), PEng, Rock mechanics, nondestructive rock bolt testing, mine design, numerical modelling, tailing disposal, slope stability analysis, well bore stability, geohazards prevention

Associate Professors

Garagash, D.I., BSc (Moscow), MS, PhD (Minnesota). Reservoir geomechanics and engineering, fault mechanics and earthquake source processes, analytical and numerical modeling, fracture mechanics.
Hansen, D., BScE (Guelph), MScE (UNB), PhD (Ottawa), PEng. Hydrology, river hydraulics, flow through porous media, municipal water systems
Hill, J.D., BSc, MSc (Acadia), PhD (UWO). Mining geology, time domain reflectometry, acid rock drainage
Jones, D.S., Dip Eng (MUN), BEng (TUNS), MBA (Western), PhD (TUNS), UG Program Chair, Mineral Program. Ground control and mine design
Lake, C., BEng (TUNS), PhD (UWO), PEng. Geotechnical engineering, geo-environmental engineering, geosynthetics performance
Liu, Y., BScE, MScE (Xi'an), PhD (UNB), PEng., Co-op Coordinator. Structural analysis and design, applications to masonry structures, advanced strength of materials, application of the finite element method
Walsh, M., BEng (TUNS), MEng (McGill), PhD (Dal), PEng. Water and wastewater treatment

Assistant Professors

Barnes, C.L., BSc (Dal), BEng, MASc (TUNS), PhD (Dal), PEng. Nondestructive evaluation of civil engineering infrastructure, reinforced concrete corrosion modeling and design of cover layer systems, pavement materials and systems design, evaluation, and monitoring.
Forgeron, D., BEng (TUNS), PhD (Dal), PEng. Fibre reinforced concrete and shotcrete, synthetic fiber reinforcement development and optimization, construction materials and methods
Thorburn, J., BSc (UNB), MSc (Alberta), PhD (Dal), PEng. Assistant Dean of Students. Structural analysis and design, design of steel structures

Adjunct Professors

El-Jabi, N., BASc (Sherbrooke), MASc, PhD (U of Montreal, Poltechnique), PEng
Koko, T., BSc (Nigeria), MEng (Nigeria), PhD (UBC), PEng

Adjunct Associate Professors

Caissie, D., BASc (Moncton), MASc (Moncton), PhD (Dal), PEng
Forrester, D.J., BSc, PhD (Nottingham), PEng. Geotechnical, rock mechanics, mining and mine environment management
Kenny, S., BEng, MEng, PhD (Memorial), PEng
Pegg, N., BSc (Guelph), MASc (UBC), PhD (TUNS), PEng

Adjunct Assistant Professors

Rand, J., CAS (Acadia), BEng, PhD (Dal)
Civil Engineering Program

Civil Engineering Program

I. Introduction

Civil Engineering is concerned with the engineering (planning, design and construction) of systems of constructed facilities related to the needs of society. The scope and complexity as well as the interdisciplinary involvements of Civil Engineering continues to increase rapidly with the development of modern science and technology and the population growth with its spiraling demands upon the air-land-water environment. The preparation of the Civil Engineering student is aimed toward meeting these challenges through innovative application of known principles, creative research to discover new approaches, and imaginative design to fulfill society's needs.

Civil Engineering graduates are found in responsible engineering and administrative positions in industry and government. Some become consultants in planning, design or construction of engineering projects or in specialized fields where the application of research to the solution of practical problems is important. The professional practice of a Civil Engineer includes the conception, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of private and public projects. Included in this are bridges, buildings, highways, airports, railroads, harbors, docks, subways, tunnels, water supply and purification systems, sewage collection and treatment facilities, water power developments, and Petroleum Engineering. See the Engineering section for details of Master's and Doctoral programs.

II. Class Descriptions

Not all classes are offered every year. Please consult the current timetable for this year's offerings.

CIVL 6000.03: Directed Studies in Civil Engineering I.

This class offers the Graduate Student an opportunity to undertake a study in a specific area of interest that is not covered in the regular class offerings. The student chooses to work under the supervision of a Faculty Member in the Department. This class is normally available to a Graduate Student enrolled in a Master's Degree Programme.

CIVL 6101.03: Advanced Strength of Materials.

The class introduces tensor mathematics. The governing equations of an elastic solid are developed in various coordinate systems. Engineering problems such as plane problem, St. Venant, bending, torsion, and extension of bars are treated. Displacement, stress field and Airy function and some numerical methods for obtaining solutions are other methods that are covered. The class explores various failure criteria and their application. Theory of anisothropic elastic continuum concludes the class.
PREREQUISITE: Undergraduate senior level Strength of Materials or equivalent

CIVL 6108.03: Graduate Seminar - Masters Level.

This seminar class is designed to provide graduate students with the opportunity to search the literature for information on current topics related to their projects/thesis. All graduate students pursuing MEng and MASc degrees in the Civil Engineering programme are required to take this class and offer their findings, orally in one presentation to the faculty members of the department and students, four months prior to the completion of their programme. This presentation will be followed by a question and answer session. Graduate students might also be asked to submit a written version of their presentations (or a hard-copy of their presentation slides) to the Graduate Coordinator of their department. This seminar class will be offered twice each academic year in the format of an end-of-term conference in Fall and Winter semesters, respectively. Evaluation will be based on preparation, presentation skills, scientific content, ability to field questions and regular attendance. Graded pass/fail.
NOTE: This is a required class for all Master students in the Department of Civil and Resource Engineering:(2)Registration of this class is required only for the term during which students present their research findings.

CIVL 6115.03: Design of Water Treatment Plants.

Evaluation of water quality characteristics and synthesis of unit operations into plants designed to modify those characteristics. Design aspects of flocculation, coagulation, precipitation, sedimentation, filtration and disinfection are included.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 4440.03 or equivalent

CIVL 6116.03: Biological Waste Treatment.

A study of fundamental principles of microbiology as applicable to domestic waste treatment. Activated sludge processes, trickling filters, aerated lagoon, stabilization ponds, disinfection and anaerobic treatment.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 4440.03 or equivalent

CIVL 6117.03: Water Quality Management.

Water quality requirements for various uses: factors affecting water quality; behaviors and fate of pollutants in treatment plants and receiving waters and considerations involved in selection from alternative methods of water quality control.

CIVL 6119.03: Highway Materials.

A study is made of the properties of subgrades and of how they influence the performance of pavements. The purpose and properties of base and sub-base will be considered. Bituminous materials and aggregates are tested and combined to give desirable mixes.

CIVL 6126.03: Foundation Engineering I.

Geotechnical aspects of shallow and deep foundation design are presented. Current subsoil investigation and field methods for foundations of structures will be reviewed. Bearing capacity and deformation of both shallow and deep foundations are examined with respect to analytical, numerical and empirical methods.

CIVL 6134.03: Advanced Highway Geometric Design.

This class deals with the principles of Geometric design controls and criteria with special reference to capacity controlled designs. Grade separated intersections and fully developed interchanges will be discussed in relation to traffic volumes. Computer-based design of freeway and ramp junctions will be considered in detail.

CIVL 6135.03: Groundwater Chemical Quality.

This class provides an in-depth study into the chemical quality of groundwater. As water passes through the various stages of the hydrologic cycle, its composition changes. This class will explore these changes with particular reference to: (1) the types of inorganic and organic constituents dissolved in water and their significance; (2) the suitability of water quality data and its presentation; (3) the various processes that control the behaviour of dissolved substances in groundwater; (4) the evolution of groundwater quality; (5) the more commonly used groundwater quality models; (6) basic chemical properties, transport mechanisms, retardation and restoration of organic contaminants in water; and (7) point of use water treatment.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 3451.03 and 4410.03. The latter may be taken concurrently.

CIVL 6137.03: Advanced Soil Mechanics.

This class deals with the stress-strain behaviour and its mathematical representation. The aspects considered include nonlinear elastic and elasto-plastic behaviour of soils with particular reference to the critical state theory. Application of several well-established soil models for solving practical problems are discussed.

CIVL 6139.03: Transport Operations.

This class is an introduction to the operation of transportation services at the urban and regional levels. Surveys and data collection, development of computerized data bases, and elements of travel forecasting; trip generation, trip distribution, modal split, trip assignment are covered. Operational characteristics of public transportation, airports and freight distribution systems, and performance evaluation are discussed. Environmental, energy and safety implications of transportation systems, and existing policies are reviewed.

CIVL 6141.03: Modeling of Groundwater Systems.

Basic concepts in analytical and numerical modeling of groundwater systems are introduced. Fundamental equations for flow in aquifers and mathematical statement of the groundwater forecasting problems are studied. The hydraulic approach to flow in aquifers and the continuum approach to flow through porous media are discussed. Modeling techniques for groundwater quality problems dealing with pollutant movement due to hydrodynamic dispersion are also studied.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 4410.03

CIVL 6142.03: Pavement Design and Management.

This class covers all aspects of flexible, (asphalt concrete) and rigid (portland cement concrete) pavements design methods. It includes structural pavement design of new pavements and overlay, including mechanistic. (i.e., shell, Asphalt Institute, PCA), empirical, (i.e., AASHTO, Ontario) and performance prediction - oriented, (i.e., VESYS, DAMA, LTPP - observation) methods. It also includes the recent research efforts in monitoring pavement performance.

CIVL 6143.03: Modelling of Groundwater Systems II.

This class builds on the fundamental concepts introduced in Modelling of Groundwater I. Emphasis will be placed on numerical techniques for studying contaminant transport in groundwater.
Numerical aspects of modelling, parameter identification and optimization will be discussed along with modelling of chemistry coupled to transport, dispersion theory and transport in fractured media.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 6141.03

CIVL 6144.03: Geo-Environmental Barrier Design.

Geo-environmental aspects of waste management are examined with emphasis on the design of barrier systems to provide long term protection against groundwater contamination. A major focus is the integration of engineering design and dydrogeologic considerations relative to contaminant transport through engineered barrier systems and natural soils.

CIVL 6145.03: Probability Concepts in Civil Engineering Planning & Design.

This class introduces concepts related to the role of probability in civil engineering, uncertainty in real-world information, design and decision making under uncertainty.
Examples will be derived from planning and design of airport pavements, hydrologic design, of structures and machines, geotechnical design, construction planning and management, photogrammetric and geodetic surveying measurements.
The class will discuss analytical models of random phenomena, functions of random variables, estimating parameters from observation data, empirical determination of distribution models, regression and correlation analyses, elements of quality assurance and acceptance sampling.

CIVL 6147.03: Advanced Theory of Structures.

This class provides graduate students and practicing engineers with a knowledge necessary to make safe and efficient use of computer programmes designed to analyze frame type structures. The displacement method is studied in detail with applications to trusses, continuous beams, complex rigid frames, grillages and space frames. The theoretical knowledge gained is put into practice through commercially available codes. Throughout the class, practical 'real-life' problems constitute the assignments and projects.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 3505.03 or equivalent

CIVL 6148.03: Application of Finite Element Method I (Linear Systems).

This class introduces the theory and implementation of the analysis procedures used in the linear, static, and dynamic finite element analysis systems. Continuum mechanics formulations of one-two- and three-dimensional elements are reviewed, and plate and shell elements formulations are presented in detail. A selected number of equation and eigenvalue solvers are compared. Applications will include plates and shells, linear bucklin, structural dynamics and thermal field problems. Introduction to nonlinear systems will be presented.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 3705.03 and CIVL 4541.03

CIVL 6149.03: Application of Finite Element Method II (Nonlinear Systems).

This class introduces the theory and implementation of the analysis procedures used in geometric and material nonlinear finite element analysis systems. Problems in plasticity, impact, contact and viscoelasticity are treated. Numerical solutions pertinent to nonlinear systems are explored. Various topics and algorithms such as the reduce integration, hour-glass and Arc Length Automatic Stepping method are also reviewed. The students examine the above concepts by exploring a set of industrial applications.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 6148.03 or 4541.03

CIVL 6150.03: Dynamics of Structures.

This class covers fundamental analysis methods for the behavior of structures and structural elements subjected to dynamic loading. Comprehensive study of single-degree-of-freedom systems followed by solution of multi-degree -of-freedom systems with particular reference to response of multi-story structures to earthquake loading is covered. An introduction to random response and stochastic analysis of structural dynamics problems are also given.

CIVL 6151.03: Bridge Engineering.

This class provides an introduction to bridge engineering, specifically discussing the aspects of loading, analysis and design relevant to short and medium span bridges. Reference is made to current Canadian bridge design codes. Analytical methods appropriate for bridge superstructures is presented, including computer methods. The structural design of steel, reinforced concrete and prestressed concrete bridge systems are discussed.

CIVL 6152.03: Behaviour and Design of Steel Structures.

Advanced concepts of the behaviour and design of steel members and frameworks are presented, emphasizing the rationale for current steel code design criteria. Topics include torsion, plate stability, connection design, fatigue and frame behaviour.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 4541.03 or equivalent

CIVL 6153.03: Fibre Reinforced Plastics (FRP).

This class begins with a review of test methods, properties and production methods of the fibre and polymer components of fibre-reinforced laminates and of fabricated composite laminates. This is followed by the development of the macro-mechanical and micro-mechanical analysis techniques for the design of composite laminae and a study of the strength criteria used in design procedures.
PREREQUISITE: Senior level mechanics of materials class

CIVL 6155.03: Advanced Concrete Technology.

This class provides an in-depth study of the various factors affecting the behavior and performance of concrete. Strength of concrete, permeability and durability, deformation and cracking, curing, admixtures, temperature effects and specialized testing procedures are among the topics presented. High performance concrete, polymer concrete and roller compacted concrete are also studied.

CIVL 6156.03: Fibre Reinforced Cement Composites.

The purpose of this class is to introduce the student to various portland cement-based fibre composites and to provide information on their constituent materials, fabrication, mechanical performance and applications. Interaction between fibres and matrix, behaviour under tensile, flexure, fatigue and impact loading, properties of freshly mixed and hardened fibre reinforced concrete are studied. Special fibre reinforced cementitous systems like SIFCON and different application procedures like shotcreting are also covered.

CIVL 6157.03: Advanced Reinforced Concrete Structures.

A study of principles of reinforced and prestressed concrete design and the application of prestressed concrete to buildings, bridges and prefabricated structures. Yield line theory of concrete slabs, design of structures for earthquake loads, structural failure and methods of repair are covered.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 3515.03, CIVL 4515.03

CIVL 6159.03: Form and Process in Alluvial Channels.

This class begins with various aspects of fluvial geomorphology from a civil engineering point-of-view. It then moves on to discussion of hydraulic resistance based on quantitative estimates of channel roughness, regime concepts for artificial and natural rivers, uses of boundary shear stress and unit stream power in bed-load estimations, the hydraulics and statistics of suspended sediment, numerical versus physical modelling, and a review of case histories of responses of rivers to human activity. The hydraulics of fish habitat assessment is also considered. The application of HEC-RAS to a local brook is part of the class.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 3300.03, 3310.03

CIVL 6160.03: Energy Methods and Stability in Elastic Structures.

Energy methods are an important tool in elastic structural analysis and design. Many traditional methods, as well as more advanced finite element analyses for determining displacements and stresses, are based on energy principles. This class will introduce energy methods and look at several applications in structural engineering, including determination of the elastic stability limits of structures and the development of displacement matrix methods of analysis.

CIVL 6162.03: Groundwater and Wells.

This class deals with those aspects of groundwater resource assessment, development and protection pertaining to the design of water wells intended to function as reliable sources of potable water in the long-term. It includes detailed consideration of drilling methods, well design, aquifer testing, field-data interpretation, strategies for well-head protection, and the essentials of site assessment.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 4410.03

CIVL 6163.03: Design and Analysis of Plates and Shells.

This class deals with the derivation and the solution of the differential equations of plates and shells. The solutions are used for the design and analysis of practical problems. The topics covered are: plates in Cartesian coordinate system with various boundary and load conditions, introduction of yield line theory, circular plates, plates on elastic foundation, membrane theory, cylindrical shells and the theory of shells having the form of a surface of revolution.
PREREQUISITE: CIVL 3705.03 or equivalent

CIVL 6166.03: Advanced Structural Engineering Concepts.

The class will address selected advanced topics in structural engineering related to the characteristics of loading and the behaviour and design of structural systems. Ultimate strength, stability, connections and post-buckling strength will be examined, focusing on elements employed in building and bridge structures.
FORMAT: Lecture

CIVL 6167.03: Microbes in Industrial Failures.

The deterioration of materials by microorganisms is of great economic significance. It has been estimated that the biological deterioration of all industrial materials, is in the billions of dollars annually. This course is going to cover the microbial damage to building, oil and gas, wood, transportation, steel and mining industries.
FORMAT: Lectures/labs/field trips

CIVL 6414.03: Environmental Systems Engineering.

This course discusses various operational research techniques and their applications to environmental systems planning and pollution control. Case studies are designed to deal with the planning, design, and operation issues of environmental systems. Uncertainty-based optimization will be discussed for addressing systems' variability and for making decisions with improved cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Computer software packages will be used to enhance the course learning.
FORMAT: Lecture/computer lab
PREREQUISITE: Statistics and Engineering Mathematics or consent by the instructor.

CIVL 7000.03: Directed Studies in Civil Engineering II.

This class is designed for a Doctoral Candidate pursuing graduate studies leading to a PhD degree in Civil Engineering. It offers the graduate student an opportunity to complete an advanced study in a specific topic of interest that is not included in the regular classes offered. The student works under the supervision of a faculty member in the Civil Engineering Department.

CIVL 7105.03: Graduate Seminar - PhD Level.

This seminar class is designed to provide graduate students with the opportunity to search the literature for information on current topics related to their project/thesis. All graduate students pursuing a PhD degree in the Civil Engineering Programme are required to take this class and offer their findings, orally, in TWO presentations to the faculty members of the department and students, in two intervals, before their thesis defense. The presentation will be followed by a question and answer session. Graduate students might also be asked to submit a written version of their presentations (or a hard-copy of their presentation slides) to the Graduate Coordinator of their department. This seminar class will be offered twice each academic year in the format of an end-of-term-conference in Fall and Winter semesters, respectively. Evaluation will be based on preparation, presentation skills, scientific content, ability to field questions and regular attendance. Graded pass/fail
NOTE: (1)This is a required class for all PhD students in the Department of Civil and Resource Engineering; (2)Registration of this class is required only for the term during which students present their research findings.

CIVL 8500.00: MEng Project.

A Master of Engineering candidate will be required to submit a project satisfactory to the Faculties of Graduate Studies and Engineering and to make a successful oral presentation of the work.

CIVL 9000.00: Masters Thesis.

CIVL 9530.00: PhD Thesis.

Mineral Resource Engineering Program

Mineral Resource Engineering Program

I. Introduction

Canada has an abundance of natural resources and is a world leader in mineral and hydrocarbon extraction and processing. Mineral Resource Engineering concentrates on the technical, environmental and economic aspects of the extraction and processing of the earth's mineral resources. It has a strong industrial and research interest in many aspects of this sector. Graduate Studies in Mineral Resource Engineering has specializations in mining, petroleum, and mineral processing.

A. Specialization in mining and mineral processing engineering

If a student chooses to specialize in mining engineering, opportunities exist for advanced studies in underground and surface mining of coal, oil shales, metals, gold and industrial minerals. Research topics may include rock mechanics, mine design, ground support, field monitoring, optimization, equipment maintenance and many more. A student may also choose to specialize in mineral processing with the focus on the beneficiation of ores.

B. Specialization in petroleum engineering

Research opportunities exist in reservoir engineering, offshore drilling, production of oil and gas, petroleum geomechanics, wellbore stability, and more. Graduate studies in petroleum engineering prepares students for a career in the conventional petroleum sector as well as the oil sands mining.

In addition to the Graduate Scholarships available in the Faculty of Engineering and Dalhousie University, the Mineral Resource Engineering Program also provides a limited number of Research Assistantships to highly qualified candidates. Candidates are suggested to contact individual faculty members for details.

II. Class Descriptions

Not all classes are offered every year. Please consult the current timetable for this year's offerings.

See the Engineering section of this calendar for Master's and Doctoral program details. Courses listed under PETR-petroleum engineering may also be accepted for credit toward graduate studies in Mineral Resource Engineering.

MINE 6001.03: Advanced Rock Mechanics.

MINE 6002.03: Mine Excavation.

MINE 6004.03: Analysis of Mineral Industries.

MINE 6007.03: Directed Studies in Mining Engineering.

MINE 6008.03: Advanced Petroleum Engineering.

MINE 6009.03: Offshore Drilling and Production.

MINE 6010.03: Solid-Liquid Separation.

MINE 6011.03: Advanced Mine Planning and Design.

MINE 6012.03: Advanced Economic Evaluation of Mineral Resources.

MINE 6015.03: Advanced Mining Engineering Analysis.

MINE 6016.03: Geomechanical Measurements.

MINE 6017.03: Mining and the Environment.

MINE 6021.03: Pit Slope Stability.

MINE 6900.03: Graduate Seminar - Master's Level.

MINE 7007.03: Directed Studies in Mineral Resource Engineering.

MINE 7900.03: Graduate Seminar - PhD Level.

MINE 8500.00: MEng Project.

MINE 9000.00: Masters Thesis.

MINE 9530.00: PhD Thesis.