By the end of this course, students should be able to a) understand the ideas and concepts behind the explicit finite difference method (FDM) and the discrete-element method (DEM), b) distinguish between continuum and discontinuum mechanics, and c) use the FD-codes FLAC, UDEC, and PFC (Itasca Consulting Group) to solve geotechnical problems in the field of tunneling, slope stability, and runout (rock falls and rock avalanches).

Theory and application of numerical procedures based on the Finite Difference Method. Analysis of geotechnical problems using the Finite Difference codes FLAC, UDEC, and PFC (Itasca Consulting Group).