Research interests include the mechanics of fracture generation and size reduction processes in the impact crushing of rock; comparison of rock fracture behavior in laboratory and in-situ loading; applications of numerical computational methods to the study of time dependent instability around underground excavations; design of underground structures; radioactive waste disposal; and underground space utilization. Dr. Fairhurst is currently working at Itasca Co., a consulting firm that he co-founded in Minneapolis.

Education

• B.Eng., 1952, Mining Engineering, Sheffield University, U.K.
• Ph.D., 1955, Mining Engineering, Sheffield University, U.K.

Selected Publications

• Fairhurst, C. and A. A. Fakhimi (1994). A model for the time-dependent behavior of rock," Int. J. Rock Mech. Min. Sci. and Geomech. Abstr. 31(2):117-126.
• Fairhurst, C. (Senior Editor), (1993). Comprehensive Rock Engineering, Vol. 2: Analysis and Design Methods, Pergamon Press.
• Fairhurst, C. and J. Pei (1990). A comparison between the distinct element method and the finite element method for analysis of the stability of an excavation in jointed rock. Tunnelling and Underground Space Tech., 5(1): 111-118.