Rock Mechanics: Practical application of hydromechanically coupled simulations in engineering projects
Dr. Sevda Dehkhoda
Hydrogeology plays a crucial role in responsible engineering construction and mining operations, yet geomechanical evaluations often lack rigorous consideration of the dynamic interactions among stress, rock mass damage, groundwater pressure, and flow. The complex relationship between engineering activities and hydrogeological systems demands strategies that address the physical processes in both surface and subsurface engineering and their interaction with water resources.
With advances in computational power, it is now possible to perform fully coupled 3D hydromechanical simulations with fewer assumptions than traditional uncoupled or 2D analyses. These simulations can represent structural models, complex discrete fracture networks (DFNs), surface and subsurface excavations, and intricate geological and hydrogeological conditions.
This presentation outlines an advanced hydromechanical modelling framework that accurately represents subsurface water dynamics, accounting for geological inconsistencies like faults and incorporating realistic boundary conditions such as drainage, terrain, rivers, and rainfall or snowmelt. The framework’s fully transient approach enables time-dependent observations, providing a dynamic view of hydrogeological changes and their effects on geomechanical conditions. Accurately modelling phenomena such as pit reflooding and surface water ingress into dilated fractures is vital for ensuring safety, predicting environmental impacts, and planning for potential closures. By delivering insights into water-rock interaction and groundwater behaviour around active and abandoned engineered structures, these analyses support informed decision-making, help mitigate environmental impacts and ensure sustainable resource extraction—ultimately advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.
About the speaker
Dr. Sevda Dehkhoda Principal, Beck Engineering
Dr. Sevda Dehkhoda is a Principal Mining and Rock Mechanics Engineer and a technology expert with 20 years of experience in R&D and technical consulting for the global mining and civil industries. Her expertise is in rock engineering and rock fracture mechanics, where she has developed advanced assessment frameworks to identify key mechanisms, parameters, and processes that influence the safety and economic outcomes of mining operations. She is currently with Beck Engineering, assisting clients in managing complex geotechnical hazards and risks, particularly those arising in high-stress, high-deformation, and deep mining environments.
Sevda holds a BSc and MSc in Mining Engineering and a PhD in Mining Technology from the University of Queensland. Her early work focused on improving mining efficiency and sustainability through innovative technologies, including selective mining and fragmentation, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of mining operations. She has authored several influential papers on these topics and is recognised for her expertise in developing experimental and computational methods for understanding rock fracturing. Her contributions have been honoured with the 2014 Rocha Medal Certificate for the best doctoral dissertation from the International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM) and the 2019 Future Leader from the American Rock Mechanics Association (ARMA).
Sevda has been an active member of the Australian Geomechanics Society (AGS), contributing in various roles over the years: the AGS Queensland Chapter from 2012 to 2014, the AGS Western Australia Chapter from 2014 to 2015, and the AGS National Committee from 2014 to 2019. From 2019 to 2023, she was an elected board member, serving as the Regional Vice President for Australasia at the International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM). She currently serves on the ISRM Advisory Board and the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences.
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