Scientific Expedition to the Bedretto Lab in the Alps

From July 13 to 20, 2024, following the International Symposium on Landslides, a scientific delegation led by Academician Manchao He, President of the Chinese Society for Rock Mechanics and Engineering (CSRME), conducted a comprehensive expedition to the Bedretto Underground Laboratory in the Alps. The delegation included Professor Guangqi Chen, Chair of the CSRME AI Technology Application Committee (Preparatory) and Academician of the Engineering Academy of Japan; Professor Jianfu Shao, Honorary Chair of the CSRME Multi-field Coupling in Geotechnical Bodies Committee and Academician of the European Academy of Sciences; Pingfeng Li, CSRME Supervisory Board member; Yang Liu, Vice President of Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co., Ltd.; Guojun He, Vice President of the Shield Division of Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co., Ltd.; and Lige Wang, Deputy Secretary-General of CSRME's International Affairs Secretariat. 

This scientific expedition encompassed a comprehensive study of geological phenomena in the Alps, including debris flows, glaciers, and rockslides, as well as the geological and geo-energy research conducted at Switzerland’s Bedretto Lab. Additionally, it involved an examination of the construction of ultra-long deep-buried tunnels in the Alps and a scientific geological survey of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps. Through exchanges with leading international experts, the research team gained in-depth knowledge of the latest technologies and research advancements. These valuable experiences and insights are expected to significantly influence China’s research and applications in related fields, providing essential references for the construction of the National Key Laboratory for Tunnel Engineering in China. This expedition not only broadened the international perspective of the team but also strengthened the bonds of scientific collaboration between China and other countries.