How AI Will Help Prevent Accidents and Engineers Preserve Nature: International Seminar Held at ENU

Artificial intelligence, digital twins of urban infrastructure, environmentally friendly construction technologies, earthquake resilience, and biodiversity conservation became the key topics of the 3rd International Scientific Seminar XHE3W**, held at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU).

Researchers from Kazakhstan, Japan, and China presented their studies and innovative solutions addressing environmental protection, construction, geoengineering, sustainable development, digitalization of urban infrastructure, water resource management, earthquake-resistant construction, and engineering education. Representatives of the Embassy of Japan in Kazakhstan, as well as ENU faculty members and staff, also participated in the event.

In his welcoming speech, Abzal Taltenov, Vice-Rector for Research and Commercialization at L.N. Gumilyov ENU, noted that the scientific event was organized jointly by Eurasian National University, Xinjiang University, and Hachinohe Institute of Technology. According to the Vice-Rector, the seminar, held as part of the celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of ENU and the 35th anniversary of the National Academy of Engineering of Kazakhstan, has been organized annually since 2024.

Askar Zhussupbekov, Director of the Geotechnical Institute at Eurasian National University and President of the Kazakhstan Geotechnical Society, stated:

"We aim to elevate the work of our commission through the presentations and professional discussions in the fields of geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, and environmental protection. We hope this seminar will become a platform for establishing new international professional partnerships and expanding cooperation in urban infrastructure and other pressing areas, while taking place in the inspiring atmosphere of Astana, the new capital of Kazakhstan."

During the seminar, researchers also discussed the use of artificial intelligence for predicting structural failures, modern approaches to protecting cities from earthquakes, as well as environmentally responsible methods of urban planning and territorial development.

Professor Akira Hasegawa of Hachinohe Institute of Technology spoke about the measures taken in Japan to protect human lives, industry, and infrastructure following natural disasters.

The Japanese researcher described the characteristics of earthquakes in Japan and the city of Hachinohe, the mechanisms behind their occurrence, the seismic intensity scale, and the frequency of earthquakes. He emphasized that, to prevent large-scale damage to bridges and other infrastructure during future earthquakes, Japan has revised its building codes and reinforced existing structures.

In conclusion, Professor Hasegawa stressed that earthquake engineering should be viewed as a continuous process encompassing every stage—from the occurrence of an earthquake and assessment of its consequences to the recovery of affected territories and infrastructure. He added that engineers must take into account the many uncertainties associated with natural disasters and incorporate sufficient safety margins into the design of structures. According to Professor Hasegawa, effective disaster risk reduction is only possible through cooperation among governments, scientists, engineers, and the public.

Professor Yoshiyuki Tanaka of Hachinohe Institute of Technology presented research focused on biodiversity conservation and restoration.

"Today, the United Nations and many countries around the world are placing great emphasis on restoring biodiversity. It is believed that both the number of species and the populations of many organisms are steadily declining. By 2030, the global goal is to halt this decline and contribute to ecosystem restoration. In Japan, the government is implementing measures to protect natural areas in order to conserve and restore biodiversity. However, this is not an easy task. It is important to consider not only the number of species but also the population size of each species. Therefore, it is essential to develop reliable biodiversity monitoring methods. In my research, I demonstrate how ecosystem conditions can be assessed using data on marine organisms," said Yoshiyuki Tanaka.

During the seminar, ENU researchers Zhanar Kusbergenova and Atogali Zhumabayev from the Department of Civil Engineering presented the results of their study on evaluating the mechanical properties of soils. Their findings can be applied in engineering and geological surveys as well as in the design of building foundations.

Participants also presented a developing technology designed to extend the service life of reinforced concrete piles by reducing the water absorption of concrete. According to the research findings, the modified material demonstrates greater resistance to moisture, aggressive groundwater, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles.

At the conclusion of the seminar, participants will formulate practical recommendations on the application of modern engineering solutions, the development of sustainable urban environments, and the implementation of joint international research projects.

At the end of the workshop, all participants received certificates. Scientists who made significant contributions to the organization and successful conduct of the event were awarded letters of appreciation from the Rector of ENU.

The seminar will continue until July 17.