Geotechnical engineering continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of soil mechanics, foundation behaviour and soil-structure interactions. Recent studies present innovative methodologies, refined analytical techniques, and practical frameworks that promise to improve construction safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This editorial reviews fifteen significant contributions grouped into four themes, each highlighting new insights and technologies with promising applications across various geotechnical scenarios.
The first theme is soil-structure interaction and foundation performance. Foo et al. (2024) carried out a series of back analyses of an embedded retaining wall constructed in London. A good match between the site monitoring data and the back analysis was achieved by varying Eu/Cu ratios at different construction stages, highlighting the importance of correlating soil stiffness with the magnitude of the strain. Wiechecki et al. (2024) focused on integral bridge abutments, emphasising the benefits of using finite element modelling over the traditional limit equilibrium approaches to capture backfill resistance. Khamesi and Mir Mohammad Hosseini (2024) examined the resilience of rocking foundations under seismic loads, considering various soil and structure parameters. The finite element analysis results show that those investigated parameters contribute significantly to the rocking foundation performance. Sivakumar et al. (2024) introduced a novel “umbrella anchor” for offshore wind platforms. Physical modelling was carried out to explore anchor resistance and the potential for high-efficiency installation. Muhammadi et al. (2024) carried out a series of discrete-element modelling to optimise the cutter-head opening design for earth pressure balance machines. The study focused on the interaction between cutter-head in EPB machine with cohesive and non-cohesive soils, highlighting the interface between tunnelling machinery and ground conditions. These papers collectively advance our understanding of soil-structure interaction, improving foundation stability and performance across diverse applications, from retaining walls, seismic-resistant foundations to EPB tunnel machine.
The second theme is the shear and frictional properties of soils. Wang and Li (2024) carried out laboratory tests to characterise the unique shear responses of peat, showing how organic content and strain affect shear resistance. It highlights the benefits of using the triaxial test instead of the direct shear box method to obtain more accurate shear strength. Ghaderi and Saeedi Azizkandi (2024) used two-dimensional discrete-element modelling to study the fundamental and engineering aspects of shear band formation in sandy soils during faulting. By using this method, a link was established between various micro mechanisms and macro parameters. Zhou et al. (2024) carried out a series of shear tests to determine the frictional capacity of pile-CS interfaces, investigating how interface friction varies with cement strength and pile geometry. These papers contribute to a deeper understanding of soil shear and frictional behaviours, which are critical for optimising soil stability and load-bearing capacity in various structural contexts.
The third theme is innovations in soil characterisation and testing techniques. O’Brien et al. (2024) proposed a simplified framework for calculating the nonlinear stiffness of soil. This paper describes the practical applications of proposed frameworks with their calculated nonlinearity compared with high-quality field and laboratory data. The extensive database provides unique value for practising geotechnical engineers working in similar ground conditions. Xu et al. (2024) carried out a discrete-element method modelling of structural clay. The bond and cohesive contact model have been used to capture the cohesion and structure of soft clay. The modelling results agree well with experimental findings at the macroscopic level, which carries significant implications for the improvement of constitutive models and engineering design. Chitambira and Dewar (2024) reviewed a large dataset of plate load tests and refined the calculation of internal friction angles, enhancing temporary and permanent platform stability. Yimit et al. (2024) advanced land subsidence monitoring using optical fibre sensing, providing guidance for improved accuracy under various soil conditions. This theme focuses on advancements in soil testing and material characterisation, offering more precise analytical tools and data interpretation methods.
The fourth theme is sustainable and resilient soil management. Nowak and Barr (2024) presented a study addressing dynamic load effects on haul roads, recommending alternatives to quasi-static design for roads under heavy, moving loads. Shen et al. (2024) optimised groundwater control methods for more effective drainage by examining siphon drainage systems in soft soil. Wagner et al. (2024) investigated tailings compaction. This work supports sustainable tailings disposal through dry stacking, which has been shown to maintain particle integrity under typical pressures. These studies emphasise sustainable geotechnical practices, focusing on drainage management, resilient road construction, and environmentally conscious waste disposal methods.
Together, these themes advance the fundamental understanding of soil mechanics and the practical applications of geotechnical engineering, driving safer, more efficient, and sustainable practices in construction and infrastructure.
