CAS academician gives talk on development of rock mechanics and engineering in China at UM

The University of Macau (UM) held a talk titled ‘Rock Mechanics and Engineering in China: Development and Challenges’ today (8 May), as part of the University Lecture Series. He Manchao, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), professor at China University of Mining and Technology (Beijing), and director of the State Key Laboratory for Tunnel Engineering, was the speaker. The talk was well attended by people from different sectors of the community.

Speaking at the event, UM Vice Rector Michael Hui said that as a core discipline underpinning geotechnical engineering and infrastructure development, rock mechanics plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of major engineering projects and advancing sustainable societal development. He noted that Prof He’s pioneering research not only drives forward the development of the discipline, but also provides essential theoretical foundations and technical support for major infrastructure projects in China.

During the talk, Prof He gave an overview of the development of rock mechanics, with particular emphasis on large-scale engineering projects carried out by China in regions with extreme geological conditions, such as the Himalayas and the Hengduan Mountains. He added that, in order to overcome construction challenges, Chinese researchers have advanced the theory, equipment, and technologies of rock mechanics, developing a comprehensive theoretical framework applicable to extreme and complex geological environments.

In addition, Prof He engaged with the audience during the Q&A and discussion session, which was moderated by Zhou Wanhuan, head of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in the UM Faculty of Science and Technology.

He Manchao

Michael Hui

The Q&A and discussion session