MS275 - Advanced Numerical and Data-Driven Methods in Geotechnical Engineering

Organized by: J. Ninic (University of Birmingham & Durham University, United Kingdom), C. Augarde (Durham University, United Kingdom), H. Bui (University of Birmingham, United Kingdom), H. Liravi (University of Birmingham, United Kingdom) and H. Zhu (University of Birmingham, United Kingdom)
Keywords: Advanced Numerical Methods, Constitutive Modelling, data-driven modelling, Digital Twins for Underground Structures, Geotechnical engineering
The increasing demand for sustainable and resilient geo-structures, as well as the repurposing and reuse of existing ones, presents significant challenges for geo-engineers and geo-scientists. They are tasked with designing complex projects while optimising available resources. Computational modelling and data-driven approaches have become fundamental tools in the design and back-analysis of geotechnical structures such as tunnels, deep basements, slopes, dams, retaining walls, and foundations. Recent advancements in numerical methods and data-driven techniques have revolutionised traditional approaches, enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of ground engineering-related projects, and extending their application beyond experts to a broader range of engineers and geo-scientists. This minisymposia (MS) aims to collect advanced and stabilised/robust numerical and data-driven models dealing with geotechnical and ground engineering problems. This MS will cover a range of cutting-edge subtopics, including but not limited to: • Application of physics-enhanced machine learning in ground engineering problems • Model- and data- driven techniques including model update, inverse problems, fusion of models and data and virtual control for ground engineering problems • Advanced numerical methods: boundary-fitted, i.e., mesh-based and boundary-unfitted discretisation technique, i.e., CutFEM, including meshless methods; Material Point Method (MPM); Isogeometric analysis (IGA) • Robust constitutive modelling techniques, e.g. sub-stepping, for tunnel and foundation engineering • Advanced numerical methods and data-driven models for elastic and acoustic wave propagation problems • Advanced sensing and monitoring technologies for geotechnical applications: data- and physics- driven interpretations and predictive analytics REFERENCES [1] Ninić, J. and Meschke, G., 2015. Model update and real-time steering of TBMs using simulation-based metamodels. Tunnelling and Underground Space Tech, 45, pp.138-152. [2] Bui, H.G., Ninić, J., et al., 2024. Integrated BIM-based modeling & simulation of segmental tunnel lining by means of IGA. Finite Elements in Analysis and Design, 229. [3] Liravi, H., Bui, H.G., Kaewunruen, S., Colaço, A., Ninić, J., 2025. Bayesian optimisation of underground railway tunnels using a surrogate model. Data-Centric Engineering 6, e32. [4] Zhu, H. M., Huang, M. Q., and Zhang, Q. B., 2024. TunGPR: Enhancing data-driven maintenance for tunnel linings