Research Themes
Our laboratory is engaged in the following research themes in geotechnical engineering.
1. Mechanical Properties and Constitutive Models of Soils
We investigate the mechanical behavior of various geomaterials such as clay, sand, and gravel, and develop more accurate constitutive models. By combining laboratory soil tests with numerical analysis, we evaluate the deformation and strength characteristics of soils in detail.
Main Activities
- Investigation of stress-strain relationships through triaxial compression tests
- Evaluation of dynamic properties of ground through cyclic loading tests
- Development and validation of elasto-plastic constitutive models
- Research on mechanical behavior of unsaturated soils
2. Seismic Ground Behavior and Liquefaction
We study the dynamic response of ground during earthquakes, particularly the liquefaction phenomenon in sandy soils. Using geotechnical centrifuge tests and numerical simulations, we clarify ground deformation mechanisms during earthquakes and aim to propose effective liquefaction countermeasures.
Main Activities
- Clarification of liquefaction mechanisms
- Seismic response evaluation through centrifuge model tests
- Liquefaction prediction using effective stress analysis
- Development and evaluation of liquefaction countermeasures
3. Ground Improvement Technologies
We conduct research and development of ground improvement technologies directly related to practical applications, such as improvement of soft ground and reinforcement of existing structures. We verify the effectiveness of deep mixing methods using cement-based stabilizers and ground injection methods through laboratory and field tests.
Main Activities
- Ground improvement using cement-based stabilizers
- Ground reinforcement through chemical grouting
- Reinforced soil methods using geosynthetics
- Development of evaluation methods for improvement effects
4. Slope Stability and Disaster Prevention
We research the stability evaluation of natural slopes and cut/fill slopes, clarification of slope failure mechanisms during heavy rainfall and earthquakes, and effective slope disaster prevention measures.
Main Activities
- Advanced slope stability analysis methods
- Clarification of slope failure mechanisms due to rainfall infiltration
- Slope disaster prevention monitoring technologies
- Evaluation of landslide countermeasures
5. Foundation Design and Performance Evaluation
We evaluate the bearing capacity and settlement characteristics of various foundation structures such as pile foundations and shallow foundations, and propose more rational design methods.
Main Activities
- Vertical and lateral bearing capacity of piles
- Foundation settlement prediction methods
- Soil-foundation-structure interaction analysis
- Performance evaluation and reinforcement of existing foundations
6. Geoenvironmental Issues
We research soil remediation technologies, geotechnical utilization of waste materials, ground-source heat utilization, and other environmentally-conscious geotechnical technologies.
Main Activities
- Remediation and restoration of contaminated soils
- Utilization of recycled materials as geomaterials
- Efficiency improvement of ground-source heat pump systems
- Development of sustainable geotechnical technologies
Projects
Ongoing Projects
- Development of Liquefaction Damage Prediction System for Large Earthquakes - Development of liquefaction hazard assessment methods using machine learning
- Slope Disaster Risk Assessment Considering Climate Change - Slope stability evaluation considering increased rainfall intensity
- Effective Utilization Technology for Excavated Soil - Long-term stability evaluation of improved soil using cement-based stabilizers
- Foundation Reinforcement Technology for Aging Infrastructure - Development of seismic performance improvement methods for existing pile foundations
Collaborative Research
We actively promote collaborative research with domestic and international universities, research institutions, construction companies, and consulting firms. Through collaboration with industry, we aim to develop technologies that can be implemented in society.
Main Research Partners
- Domestic universities (University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Tohoku University, etc.)
- Construction companies (major general contractors, ground improvement specialists, etc.)
- Geological survey companies and construction consultants
- Research institutions such as National Institute for Land and Infrastructure Management (NILIM) and Public Works Research Institute (PWRI)