Rock Mechanics & Rock Engineering Lab
Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering Laboratory (RMLAB) within the Department of Civil Engineering, Kathmandu university is established with an aim to promote underground research and construction. There is rapid development in the design and construction of underground projects in Nepal. Underground structures mainly tunnels are constructed for water conveyance system in hydropower projects, for transportation facilities connecting major cities and for irrigation system to enhance the agricultural production of the country. The safe design and economic constructions of these projects lies in the proper research and experimentations. However, due to the limited study in the field of Nepal geology and lack of data collection, there is very limited research in this area. Thus, the Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering laboratory is developed to promote research, field measurement and laboratory testing which allows researcher and student to access them for the future development and constructions.
The lab has been established with the primary objective of promoting advanced research and innovation in underground structures and the field of Geotechnical Engineering. It is equipped to facilitate comprehensive laboratory testing of various rock and soil samples, supporting both academic study and industry needs. Furthermore, the lab aims to serve as a collaborative hub, fostering partnerships and knowledge exchange between the university, the construction industry, and government organizations, particularly in the field of tunnel construction technology.
The objectives of the establishment of the laboratory are:
- To advance research and innovation in underground structures and Geotechnical Engineering.
- To provide comprehensive laboratory testing facilities for a wide range of rock and soil samples.
- To establish a collaborative platform for the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the university, the construction industry, and government organizations, particularly in the area of tunnel construction technology.
