Research Labs

Geomechanics Laboratory

At our Geomechanics Laboratory, we are dedicated to advancing the understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of geological materials. The state-of-the-art facility is equipped with advanced instruments designed for precise testing and analysis of rock samples under various environmental conditions. Whether the research involves exploring the behavior of rocks deep within the Earth's crust, analyzing microstructural properties, or assessing material strength, the laboratory is equipped to support research needs. These capabilities are particularly applicable in fields such as petroleum engineering, mining, tunneling, and other geotechnical engineering disciplines.

For any query, please write to: hod.pe@iipe.ac.in

Geomechanics Lab
Rock Testing
Rock Testing

Research Facilities

Rock Triaxial System

The Rock Triaxial System is the centerpiece of the laboratory, offering advanced capabilities for understanding rock deformation, strength, and post-failure behavior. This computer-controlled, closed-loop servo hydraulic system is designed to replicate in-situ geological conditions at laboratory scale.

Key Features

  • Axial Loading Capacity up to 3000 kN
  • High Confining Pressure up to 140 MPa
  • High-Temperature Capability up to 200°C
  • Compression, Triaxial and True-Triaxial Testing Modes
  • Advanced Digital Servo Control with Real-Time Monitoring
  • Hydraulic Fracture Propagation Studies
  • Wellbore Stability Analysis

Types of Tests

  • Uniaxial Compression Tests (Dry and Saturated)
  • Triaxial Tests
  • Multi-stage Triaxial Tests
  • Precise Strain Measurement using LVDTs
  • Pore Pressure Tests
  • High Temperature Testing
  • P-wave and S-wave Velocity Measurement During Testing
  • Axial Cyclic Loading
  • Acoustic Emission Detection
  • Hydraulic Fracture and Wellbore Breakdown Pressure Measurement

Point Load Tester

The Point Load Tester is a compact and lightweight system designed for rapid rock strength evaluation. With a load capacity of up to 100 kN, it supports point load tests, unconfined compressive tests, and Brazilian tests on NX-size rock samples.

Continuous data acquisition and integrated analysis software ensure accurate and reliable measurements for research and industrial applications.

Ultrasonic Velocity Tester

The Ultrasonic Velocity Tester is a portable device used to assess rock compressive strength and identify internal defects such as cracks and voids. By measuring P-wave and S-wave velocities, it can also determine the Dynamic Elastic Modulus of rock samples.

The system is particularly useful for non-destructive testing and field investigations.

Polarizing Microscope

The Polarizing Microscope is an essential tool for investigating the microstructural characteristics of geological specimens. Equipped with transmitted and incident light illumination, it enables detailed examination of mineralogy, textures, pores, fractures, and crack networks.

Its high-resolution 3.1 MP imaging system supports accurate quantitative measurements and detailed analysis of anisotropic and birefringent materials.