Shimin Liu

Shimin Liu is a Professor of Energy and Mineral Engineering and Mining Engineering at Pennsylvania State University, holding the Deike Chair Professorship. He serves as the Associate Department Head for Graduate Education. His research focuses on geomechanics and fluid dynamics applied to unconventional resources, carbon sequestration, and mine safety. He leads the Liu’s Unconventional Geomechanics Lab (UGL), which specializes in multiscale rock characterization under in-situ conditions, supporting industry stakeholders in coalbed methane and shale gas sectors.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Engineering Science, Southern Illinois University (2012)
  • M.S., Mineral Processing Engineering, China University of Mining & Technology (2007)
  • B.S., Environmental Engineering, China University of Mining & Technology (2005)

His research interests include reservoir assessment of coal/shale resources, geomechanical modeling, ground control for mines, and nanoscale rock imaging. Recent work emphasizes CO2 sequestration, hydrogen storage in unconventional reservoirs, and coal gasification via bio-seeding. His lab employs advanced techniques like neutron scattering and micro-CT for detailed rock analysis.

Publications reflect a focus on gas storage mechanisms, CO2 sequestration, and shale mechanics, with contributions to journals like Fuel and Heliyon. Key awards include the 2017 Freeport-McMoRan Grant and recognition for early-career excellence at Penn State.

Grants and Industry Collaboration include funded projects on coal mine gas management, hydraulic fracturing optimization, and carbon capture. His lab’s services are sought by energy companies for reservoir characterization and geomechanical solutions.

Labs/Teams: The Unconventional Geomechanics Lab (UGL) at Penn State, specializing in multiscale rock characterization under simulated in-situ conditions.