Participants at the MCU event at the MC Spain headquarters warehouse
©MC-Bauchemie 2026

Participants at the MCU event at the Fundación Santa Bárbara in Ponferrada
©MC-Bauchemie 2026

Participants at the MCU event at the MC Spain headquarters warehouse
©MC-Bauchemie 2026

Participants at the MCU event at the Fundación Santa Bárbara in Ponferrada
©MC-Bauchemie 2026

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From excavation to maintenance: Tunnel solutions across the entire lifecycle

The technical programme covered virtually the entire lifecycle of an underground construction project. Experts from MC Underground and across the MC organisation shared their knowledge on ground stabilisation and pre-excavation injection, water ingress control, mechanised tunnelling, soil conditioning and foam technology, tail sealants and annular gap grouting. Further sessions focused on the TBM simulator and current innovations in tunnel boring technology, as well as cement-free concrete for tunnel segments. Conventional tunnelling was another key topic, with presentations on sprayed concrete, shotcrete accelerators and cement-free sprayed concrete. The programme also addressed waterproofing, the protection and preservation of tunnel structures, service life and maintenance. Together, these topics highlighted MCU’s holistic approach: rather than viewing individual products in isolation, the team focuses on the challenges of underground construction across the entire project lifecycle – from excavation and construction to the long-term protection and maintenance of the structure.

Turning technical knowledge into practical experience

A particular strength of the event was the close link between theory and practice. At MC-Spain, participants experienced products and technologies first-hand during guided laboratory demonstrations and discussed their applications directly with MC experts. The practical focus continued at Fundación Santa Bárbara in Ponferrada. Following a safety briefing, participants rotated through several hands-on stations, where they could test solutions under application-oriented conditions. This direct exchange created space for detailed questions, discussions about practical experience and conversations around specific customer challenges. In this way, the event brought customers and MC specialists into close technical dialogue.

International exchange beyond the technical sessions

With more than 70 participants from three continents and 15 countries, the event brought together a wide range of experiences, market perspectives and underground construction challenges. Knowledge transfer extended well beyond the formal presentations and demonstrations. Discussions continued during breaks, transfers and dinners, creating new connections and encouraging exchange across markets and national borders.

A strong team behind the event

The commitment of the MC Underground team was evident throughout the programme. Technical expertise, enthusiasm and close teamwork helped create an open atmosphere in which knowledge was not only presented, but actively shared, discussed and put into practice.

“The success of this year’s International MC Underground Event was, once again, a true team effort,” says Dr. Jörg Stank, Director Business Unit Tunnelling & Mining. “My special thanks go to the entire MCU team. Everyone contributed with tremendous commitment, expertise and passion – from developing the programme and preparing the technical content to organising and supporting the event on site. I am very proud of what we achieved together and of the energy the team brought to the event. I think our customers could really feel that spirit throughout these days.”

Alberto Rey, Global Head of MC Underground, also emphasises the contribution of the local hosts: “A special thank you goes to Carlos Safranez and Montse Ortuno from MC-Spain and their entire local team. They played a key role in making everyone feel welcome and ensuring that everything ran smoothly. Their commitment, hospitality and local support contributed greatly to the positive atmosphere throughout the event.” MC-Spain provided the setting for the technical sessions and laboratory demonstrations in Valencia. “A special thank you also goes to our hosts at Fundación Santa Bárbara for their hospitality and excellent support,” Rey adds.

After several intensive days in Spain, participants took home more than new technical insights. The event strengthened an international underground construction community connected by expertise, curiosity and a shared interest in developing effective solutions. For customers, partners and colleagues alike, the International MC Underground Event 2026 combined technical depth, practical experience and personal exchange – and demonstrated what international collaboration within the underground construction sector can achieve.