In the realm of energy and resource technology innovation, one crucial avenue lies in the exploration of the deep Earth for both resources and space.
However, when it comes to regions with permafrost, geomaterials face a unique challenge due to cyclic freezing and thawing, which renders them highly susceptible to temperature changes.
To truly understand and harness the potential of these geological environments, we need to consider the interplay of four principal factors: Geostress, geothermal activity, seepage, and chemical conditions.
These factors create a complex interdependence that gives rise to the thermal-hydro-mechanical-chemical (THMC) coupling effect on geomaterials. Unravelling the intricacies of this multi-field coupling is a significant and urgent challenge for researchers in this field.

This research topic aims to advance our understanding of multi-field coupling by exploring theoretical studies, experimental methods, numerical simulations, and strategies for disaster mitigation.
We enthusiastically welcome innovative approaches such as smart monitoring and visualization techniques, which can shed light on the impacts of geothermal activity, Geostress, seepage, and chemical effects on geomaterials across various scales, ranging from microscopic to macroscopic.
The outcomes of these investigations will greatly benefit a multitude of fields, including water resources and hydropower engineering, environmental engineering, petroleum exploration, geothermal development, earthquake prediction and control, underground construction, nuclear waste disposal, and more.

To facilitate this research, we encourage submissions on a wide range of potential topics, including but not limited to:

1. Non-destructive testing and characterization methods: Novel techniques for assessing the properties and behaviour of geomaterials without causing damage.

2. Advanced multi-field coupling tests: Cutting-edge experiments that explore the interplay between various factors and their influence on geomaterial behaviour.

3. Failure mechanism and deformation of geomaterials: In-depth studies on the failure modes and deformations that occur in different geomaterials under varying conditions.

4. Constitutive models of geomaterials: Development of mathematical models that capture the behaviour and response of geomaterials under THMC coupling.

5. Numerical modelling: Utilization of computational tools and simulations to investigate the behaviour and responses of geomaterials in multi-field coupling scenarios.

6. Long-time stability of geotechnical engineering: Exploration of the long-term stability and performance of geotechnical engineering structures under the influence of multiple factors.

7. Breeding mechanisms, smart monitoring, and prevention of environmental disasters: Strategies and techniques that focus on understanding the causes and prevention of environmental disasters in the context of multi-field coupling.

We encourage researchers to submit their original contributions to this research topic to further our understanding and provide insights into the complexities of multi-field coupling in geomaterials. The knowledge gained will help solve practical challenges and drive innovation across various industries.

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Frontiers in Built Environment

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