An analytical design method for ductile support structures in squeezing tunnels: Fid-Bau Portal

An analytical design method for ductile support structures in squeezing tunnels

Wu, Kui / Shao, Zhushan / Qin, Su

Ductile linings have been proved to be highly effective for tunnelling in heavy squeezing grounds. But there still has not been a well-established design method for them. In this paper, an investigation on an analytical design method for ductile tunnel linings is performed. Firstly, a solution in closed form for ground response of a circular tunnel within Burgers viscoelastic rocks is derived, accounting for the displacement release effect. Then based on the principle of equivalent deformation, the mechanical model of segmental shotcrete linings with yielding elements is established using the homogenization approach. Analytical prediction for behaviour of ductile tunnel linings is provided. Furthermore, the proposed design method for ductile tunnel linings is applied in Saint Martin La Porte access tunnel and the analytical prediction is in good agreement with field monitoring data. Finally, a parametric investigation on the influence of yielding elements on performance of ductile tunnel linings is conducted. Results show that the length of yielding elements poses a great influence on linings. It is feasible and effective to increase the length of yielding elements to obtain the pressure within the bearing capacity of linings. However, yield stress of yielding elements does not significantly affect the performance of the lining. It is suggested to apply yielding elements with relatively higher yield stress in linings for higher stability.