As urbanization intensifies and the demand for resources grows, engineering projects are increasingly extending deeper into the Earth. Numerous deep underground projects, either planned, under construction, or already completed, are facing significant challenges due to the complex geological environment. Deep engineering projects are at risk from various geological disasters such as rockburst, large deformation, water inrush, collapse, subsidence, and seismic events. These hazards can lead to considerable loss of life and economic damage during construction. To ensure the safe and sustainable development of these projects, it is imperative to implement proactive measures. This involves in-depth mechanism understanding, advanced monitoring techniques, comprehensive risk assessments, and the development of innovative mitigation strategies.
Detailed geomechanical and geophysical studies are necessary to identify the conditions and processes that lead to instability, enhancing our understanding of the mechanisms driving these geological hazards. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of developing advanced monitoring techniques, such as real-time sensor networks, Internet of Things (IoT), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), robots and remote sensing, to detect early warning signs and improve predictive capabilities. At this stage, novel numerical simulation techniques, decision-making theories and machine learning algorithms are welcome to assist risk assessment. Furthermore, we encourage research on innovative control measures and risk mitigation strategies. This includes exploring new materials, construction techniques, and proactive management practices that can enhance the resilience of underground projects. Virtual reality and meta-universe technologies that intersect with risk management are also favorable. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and disseminating cutting-edge research, we can enhance the resilience and safety of deep underground engineering endeavors, safeguarding both human lives and economic investments.
This Research Topic will primarily focus on innovative theories, methods, and techniques developed to understand the mechanisms behind geological disasters in deep engineering and to improve monitoring systems, warning models and risk mitigation strategies. By contributing to this Research Topic, researchers can share their findings and innovations, fostering a collaborative environment that advances the field of deep-underground engineering. This collective effort aims to ensure that deep engineering projects are not only sustainable but also equipped to withstand the geological challenges they face. We especially welcome articles on original research, state-of-the-art cases and comprehensive reviews that address geological disasters to enhance the safety of deep engineering endeavors. Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Mechanism analysis of geological disasters in deep underground engineering; (2) Advanced monitoring techniques for geological disasters in deep underground engineering; (3) Risk assessment methodologies and quantitative warning systems for geological disasters in deep underground engineering; (4) Innovative risk mitigation strategies for geological disasters in deep underground engineering.
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Article types
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