Geomechanics for Geo-Engineering & Sustainability (GGES) Lab
Research
The Geomechanics for Geo-Engineering and Sustainability (GGES) Lab aims to develop new knowledge and technologies at the intersection of mechanics, porous media, and engineered systems, ultimately addressing critical engineering problems.
Our research expertise includes experimental and computational mechanics, biogeotechnics, ground improvement, geohazards, infrastructure resilience to extreme events, and sustainable energy systems.
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Research Thrusts:
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Mechanics of Porous Media and Coupled Processes
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Natural and Built Infrastructure
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Sustainable Energy Systems and Infrastructure
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Mechanics Across Scales
We integrate experimental investigations with computational modeling to understand and predict the mechanisms (why, when, and how) governing deformation and failure in porous materials under varying stress, temperature, and environmental conditions across multiple spatial and temporal scales. Additionally, we explore how these insights can be upscaled to inform practical applications with meaningful societal impact.
Intersection of Mechanics and Bio-Mediated Processes
Our work lies at the intersection of mechanics, biotechnology, and induced processes in porous media, where we investigate the coupled processes that govern the mechanical behavior of bio-mediated geomaterials (rocks and soils) under complex in-situ conditions across scales. These methods involve microbes, enzymes, biopolymers, fungi, and bio-inspired solutions. Through this interdisciplinary approach, we aim to uncover new insights and ultimately engineer smart, responsive geomaterials.
Coupled Data-Driven and Sensor-based Geotechnical Mapping
Our objective is to develop transformative technologies grounded in data-driven analytics and sensor-enabled geotechnical mapping to address critical societal needs for the built environment.
Urban and System-Level Infrastructure and Hazards
Our goal here is to enhance understanding of how system-level civil infrastructure may be vulnerable to failure due to evolving urbanization and societal demands. We address challenges such as urban heat island effects, rockfall hazards, slope instability, underground excavations, and the integrity of subsurface openings.
Sustainable Energy Systems and Infrastructure
Meeting the growing global demand for energy and critical minerals is a pressing challenge. Our research focuses on advancing innovative, sustainable energy systems and infrastructure, such as stimulated geologic hydrogen, geologic COâ‚‚ and hydrogen storage, critical minerals, thermal resistivity, and buried energy infrastructure, to improve our understanding and support sustainable energy futures.
Rock Fracture Grouting and Infrastructure Improvement
One of the key infrastructure challenges our research group addresses is rock fracture grouting using natural and expansive materials. We explore their application as barriers and seals in underground repositories, as grouting agents for tunnel roof support, and for enhancing near-wellbore integrity to prevent leakage. We are also investigating their potential for slope stabilization and reinforcement.
