9th International Symposium on Deformation Characteristics of Geomaterials

Dear Colleagues in ISSMGE,

Every 4 years, ISSMGEs Technical Committee on Laboratory Testing (TC101) organises a World conference, covering advances in laboratory testing of geomaterials. Following the success of previous symposium editions in Sapporo (1994), Torino (1999), Lyon (2003), Atlanta (2008), Seoul (2011), Buenos Aires (2015), Glasgow (2019) and Porto (2023), it is our great pleasure to invite members of ISSMGE to the 9th INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM on DEFORMATION CHARACTERISTICS of GEOMATERIALS, which will be held on 14^th - 17^th of September, 2027 at the Middle East Technical University (METU), Ankara, Türkiye.

Themes of the symposium are:

Laboratory Testing

• Equipment development 
• Procedure improvement 
• Advances in sensors and data acquisition 
• Computer automation and feedback algorithms 
• Non-invasive measurements and imaging
• Laboratory vs. field properties 
• Sampling quality/disturbance 
• Repeatability, reproducability, cross-lab testing 

Deducing Elemental Behavior from Test Results

• Model-scale and large-scale testing 
• Particle-scale testing and micro-mechanics 
• Cyclic and Dynamic testing 
• Small strain testing 
• Unsaturated soil testing 
• Time-dependant processes 
• Thermo- and hydro-mechanically coupled behavior 

Material Characterization

• Anisotropy, localization, fracture propagation 
• Rock mechanics tests 
• Geogrid/geotextile/geofoam/reinforced soil tests 
• Testing of soils after improvement 
• Transportation geotechnics
• Biogeotechnics

This meeting will bring together researchers, engineers, and industry experts from around the world to exchange the latest scientific knowledge, share innovative solutions, and discuss future challenges in laboratory testing of geomaterials. With more than 200 participants expected, IS-Ankara will provide an inspiring environment for fruitful discussions, networking opportunities, and international collaborations.

We look forward to welcoming you to Ankara, Türkiye, and to METU, a leading institution in the region with a strong tradition of excellence in engineering and geosciences. Please visit the symposium website for more detailed information, including downloadable brochure, single-page advertisement, and sponsorship information, at

On behalf of the Organising Committee
N. Kartal Toker    
IS-Ankara Chairperson