Geotechnical Engineering and Underground Structures

CALL FOR PAPERS

Journal: Geotechnical Engineering

Publisher: Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), UK

Submission Opens: 16 February 2026

Abstract Submission Deadline: 1 October 2026

Full Paper Submission Deadline: 30 November 2026

Introduction

As global infrastructure expands into deep underground spaces, the long-term stability of deeply buried tunnels and their support structures has become a highly challenging core issue. In deep geological environments, high in-situ stresses often induce significant deformation and rheological properties in surrounding rock — posing unprecedented challenges to traditional geotechnical theories and engineering design methods.

In-depth investigation into the mechanical response mechanisms of surrounding rock under high stress conditions, along with the interaction patterns between support structures and rock mass, forms the critical foundation for ensuring the safe operation of deep-level engineering throughout its entire lifecycle.

Furthermore, the seismic performance and isolation technologies of underground structures are gaining increasing attention. Unlike surface structures, underground engineering is subject to strong constraints from the surrounding rock and soil medium — resulting in highly complex dynamic response mechanisms. Developing advanced seismic analysis theories and efficient isolation technologies is crucial for enhancing the resilience and resistance of underground structures during extreme seismic events.

Simultaneously, digital technologies are fundamentally transforming maintenance models in this field. Integrated health monitoring systems — leveraging advanced sensing technologies — capture real-time changes in geotechnical and structural conditions, enabling a fundamental shift from reactive repairs to proactive preventive maintenance.

This Special Issue aims to gather the latest research findings in deep-buried tunnel stability, high-stress rock mass control, seismic resistance of underground structures, and health monitoring — providing scientific foundations and technical support for constructing safer, more durable, and smarter underground infrastructure.

List of Topic Areas

Manuscripts are invited on themes including, but not limited to:

Long-term stability of deep-buried tunnels
High geostress surrounding rock and support structures
Mechanical response mechanisms of rock mass under high in-situ stress
Interaction patterns between support structures and rock mass in deep engineering
Seismic and seismic isolation technologies for underground structures
Dynamic response mechanisms of underground structures under extreme seismic events
Advanced seismic analysis theories for deep underground engineering
Full-life health monitoring of geotechnical and structural systems
Real-time sensing technologies and integrated monitoring systems
Proactive and preventive maintenance strategies for underground infrastructure
Rheological properties of surrounding rock in deep geological environments
Digital technologies and smart systems in underground engineering

Guest Editors

Prof. Bingxiang Yuan Guangdong University of Technology, China 📧 yuanbx@gdut.edu.cn

Prof. Wei Zhang 📧 (contact via journal submission platform)

Key Deadlines

📅 Manuscript Submission Opens: 16 February 2026

📝 Abstract Submission Deadline: 1 October 2026

⏰ Full Paper Submission Deadline: 30 November 2026

📧 Email for Abstract Submissions: yuanbx@gdut.edu.cn

Submission Guidelines

Submissions are made through ReView, the official submission platform of the Institution of Civil Engineers. Authors must strictly follow the journal's author guidelines.

When submitting, select "Geotechnical Engineering and Underground Structures" from the special issue drop-down menu at the appropriate step in the submission process.

⚠️ Submitted articles must not have been previously published, nor should they be under consideration for publication elsewhere while under review for this journal.

🌐 Submission Portal: https://ice-review.rivervalley.io/journal/jgeen

🌐 Author Guidelines: https://www.emeraldgrouppublishing.com/journal/jgeen#jlp_author_guidelines

About the Journal

Geotechnical Engineering, published by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), UK, is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing research and practice in geotechnical engineering. It provides an international platform for engineers, researchers, and practitioners exploring soil and rock mechanics, foundation engineering, underground structures, and geotechnical infrastructure across diverse geological and environmental contexts.

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