Laboratory of Soil Mechanics ‐ EPFL

The multitasking microbe that turns naturally CO₂ into minerals

At more than 470 times the atmospheric concentration of CO₂, our research shows, a humble soil bacterium does something extraordinary: it turns gas into stone.

Prof. Lyesse Laloui Explores the Subsoil’s Role in the Energy Transition

In a recent interview (in French) on Yann Darwin’s Les Découvertes channel, Prof. Lyesse Laloui shared how geomechanics can drive the energy transition. The discussion covered turning underground infrastructure into thermal batteries, ensuring safe CO₂ and nuclear waste storage for centuries, and using bio-cementation to improve soils sustainably. The video has already attracted over 18,000 views, reflecting growing interest in these groundbreaking solutions.

LMS and PSI Join Forces to Advance Nuclear Waste Repository Research

Two leading Swiss institutions align their strengths to tackle one of the country’s most critical environmental challenges.

“Here at the Laloui Group, our experimental and modelling expertise allows us to explore the mechanical properties of the ground beneath our feet. Our aim is to ensure a safe and sustainable future for us all by addressing the challenges of climate change, global energy demand, sustainable urban design and construction and safe and environmentally friendly waste disposal systems, through the development of unique analytical tools and innovative technologies.”

-Professor Lyesse Laloui, Director

Our research activities

Achieving sustainable and resilient communities and the environment has become one of the global challenges of the 21st century. It requires energy security for a growing population, a sustainable food supply, and resilience to natural hazards and extreme events. Securing the future for the next generations relies on our capability to mitigate global warming, access to renewable and efficient energy resources, and building resilience to natural hazards and extreme events.

Energy Geostructures and Thermal Piles

Nuclear Waste Storage

Bio-improved Soils

CO2 Storage

Behaviour of Shales

Landslide Analysis

Explore Research Internships & Student Projects

Looking to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge geotechnical engineering? The LMS Laboratory offers unique opportunities for students to contribute to real-world research in sustainability, energy, and advanced geomaterials.

Discover available projects and how to apply.