On the non-linear ‘squeezing’ effects around circular tunnels

An analysis is presented of the non-linear creep effects around a deep circular tunnel driven in ‘squeezing’ ground. The time-dependent behaviour of the geotechnical medium is described by means of a simple viscoplastic rheological model capable of approximating primary, secondary and tertiary creep behaviours. It is shown that tertiary creep can be allowed for by providing a suitable law governing the variation of some material parameters (such as viscosity) with stresses and strains. The basic operations of the ‘evolutive’ procedure adopted for time integration are outlined. Along each time integration step, quadratic variations of the stress and strain fields and linear variations of the material parameters are assumed. The results of various finite element analyses are presented concerning both lined and unlined cases. For the lined cases, the influence of the liner stiffness and of the time elapsed between the end of excavation and the liner installation is considered.     

Visco-Plastic Behaviour around Advancing Tunnels in Squeezing Rock

Summary  The visco-plastic behaviour of rocks plays a relevant role in the tunnelling works, especially for deep tunnels subjected to large initial stresses for which squeezing conditions may develop. A rheological model is discussed that accounts for visco-elastic (primary) and visco-plastic (secondary) contributions to rock creep. The effects of tertiary creep are included in the model by way of a gradual mechanical damage governed by the cumulated visco-plastic strains. The parameters of the intact rock are first identified based on laboratory test results presented in the literature. Then, after scaling them to those of the rock mass, the potential applicability of the model is tested through axisymmetric and plane strain finite element analyses of the full face excavation of a deep circular tunnel. The results are discussed with particular reference to the short term redistribution of stresses around the opening and to its convergence. The analyses show the relevant influence of tertiary creep on the tunnel closure. In addition, those based on an axisymmetric scheme turn out to be crucial for the correct long term prediction of the interaction between the rock mass and the supporting structure of the opening.     

考虑围岩蠕变全过程与扩容的深埋隧洞非线性位移解

深埋隧洞围岩变形是一个复杂的非线性力学问题,其中岩石的蠕变全过程和扩容是两个重要的影响因素。引入扩容角考虑塑性体积变化的影响,推导Hoek-Brown屈服准则下考虑与不考虑洞周面力的深埋隧洞围岩非线性应力解。借助可描述蠕变全过程行为的河海模型,获得了围岩黏弹塑性区蠕变位移表达式。针对不同NVPB蠕变参数和不同材料参数m值情况,讨论分析了洞周面力与扩容角对隧洞洞壁蠕变位移的影响规律。结果表明：在高地应力作用下,采用非线性蠕变模型描述深埋隧洞围岩蠕变问题可获得蠕变全过程曲线;扩容角增大或洞周面力和材料参数m值减小时,相同时刻隧洞洞壁蠕变位移增大,对围岩长期稳定不利。研究结论对深埋隧洞围岩临崩预报具有一定指导意义。     

泥岩隧道施工过程中渗流场与应力场全耦合损伤模型研究

在连续损伤力学理论基础上,将塑性损伤演化及渗流相互耦合的概念引入Mohr-Coulomb 破坏准则,用于分析在孔隙压力和塑性损伤演化共同作用下岩石损伤演化机制,建立了相应的有限元损伤数值分析模型,并应用于比利时核废料库开挖过程中泥岩隧道附近围岩发生损伤演化、渗流场和应力场耦合过程分析中,得到了开挖引起的围岩损伤特性、孔隙压力以及渗透性的变化规律,为进一步研究隧道流变过程水力耦合特性合理的数值计算模型建立方法提供基础。     

Comparison of analytical method, 3D finite element model with experimental subsidence measurements resulting from the extension of the Milan underground

The construction of shallow tunnels induces a state of strain in the soil around the excavation that could cause damaging differential displacements in existing structures near the tunnel. In the last decades several empirical, analytical and numerical approaches have been presented by different authors in the scientific literature with a purpose toward estimating maximum surface displacements along the tunnel axis and the surface-area extension affected by deformation phenomena. This paper reports the results of a study carried out to estimate the values of the surface settlements induced by the excavation (with an EPB-S shield machine) of the new extension of line 1 of the Metropolitana Milanese, constructed in an alluvial sandy area of the Padana Plain. In particular, the purpose of this study has been to compare the vertical surface displacements monitored during the advancing excavation to the settlements estimated by using analytical and empirical formulations and by setting up a three-dimensional finite element model that could simulate, step by step, the different tunnel excavation and supporting phases.     

A cyclic elastoplastic-viscoplastic constitutive model for soils

An elastoplastic-viscoplastic constitutive model for soils is presented in this study, based on an original approach concerning viscous modelling. In this approach, the viscous behaviour is defined by internal viscous variables and a viscous yield surface. The model has been developed from a basic elastoplastic model (CJS model) by considering an additional viscous mechanism. The evolution of the viscous yield surface is governed by a particular hardening called ‘viscous hardening’. This model is able to explain the time-dependent behaviour of soils such as creep (primary, secondary and un-drained creep rupture), stress relaxation and strain rate effects in static and cyclic loadings. The existing problems in the classical elasto-viscoplastic models related to the plasticity failure, the rapid loading and the cyclic loading are solved in the proposed model. The physical meanings and the identification strategy of model parameters are clearly given. The validation on certain triaxial test results and the simulation of cyclic triaxial test indicate the capacity of this model in prediction of time-dependent behaviour of clayey soils.     

What is the contribution of time-dependent deformation in tunnel convergence?

Tunnel excavation produces stress changes to the ground and strain to the support lining, leading to the closure (convergence) or instability of the excavated area. Convergence recorded after section excavation is assigned to: (i) strain resulting from the progressive tunnel front advance (face advance effect) and (ii) the time-dependent properties of the soil material (ground creep effect). In the present study, based on the geodetic monitoring records of two recent road tunnels in Greece, a simple methodology to estimate the contribution of each of the two effects is presented. Our analysis reveals that at least half of the total deformation of the examined tunnel sections is due to ground creep, indicating that the major portion of tunnel deformation is due to the time-dependent properties of the ground; a result supported by previous studies from other tunnels as well.     

连拱隧道施工过程的三维空间效应模拟与分析

采用三维有限元方法动态模拟了连拱隧道的施工过程,并分析和探讨了隧道在开挖过程中围岩变形的时空效应以及左右洞施工的相互影响。分析结果表明,对单洞施工,开挖面对围岩变形的影响范围为其前后方2.5 B（B为隧洞净宽）;考虑右洞开挖,对左洞围岩位移的影响范围分别为开挖面前方（未开挖）2 B和开挖面后方（已开挖）1 B。最后分析了拱顶最大沉降量随开挖面推进的变化和产生的位置以及右洞开挖的影响。     

Development and validation of a 3D numerical model for TBM–EPB mechanised excavations

A 3D numerical model for mechanised excavations is presented, which is capable of simulating the overall process of excavation and construction of a tunnel when a TBM EPB (Tunnel Boring Machine–Earth Pressure Balance) is used.The main construction aspects of a mechanised excavation are modelled. Their influence on calculated ground displacements are investigated by means of a series of parametric analyses.With the aim of testing the performance of the proposed 3D numerical model, a series of 25 Class C predictions has been carried out. Case Histories related to the construction of the 1995–2003 Madrid Metro Extension Project were considered for this purpose.As a general rule, the results obtained with the Modified Cam–Clay model closely fit in situ measurements. When the Linear-Elastic or the Mohr–Coulomb models are used, it is not as easy to summarise the results obtained, as higher fluctuations are observed around in situ measured data. A good agreement is also shown when the distribution of horizontal displacements along depth is considered.For some sections, the mechanised excavation model is not capable of reproducing the high values of the surface settlements measured in situ. A closer look at the results shows that mixed face conditions are found for these cases, with the TBM excavating through layered soil formations having sharply different mechanical behaviour.     

在裂隙岩体中开挖隧道的双场耦合蠕变分析

运用黏弹性断裂、蠕变理论,对裂隙围岩在开挖时的蠕变现象进行分析,建立了隧道开挖的双场耦合蠕变模型。运用Laplace转换,推导出围岩的径向位移函数表达式,分析了应力卸荷、渗流力的作用以及节理裂隙分布对径向位移的影响。同时,利用FLAC中的FISH语言编写了FISH函数,将计算隧道模型的数值及解析结果与实测数据进行了比较。计算结果表明,径向最大位移变化量并不在主应力最大方向,也不在隧道顶端,而是受地应力分布、渗透水压和节理分布综合作用形成偏压位移,其结果可为隧道支护提供借鉴。     

Numerical model for rock bolts with consideration of rock joint movements

Summary The stability of any underground structure during and after excavation is the most important question for designers, because any kind of collapse may destroy large parts of a finished tunnel, causing major repairs and time loss. Preliminary calculations are therefore of great importance. A calculation is only useful, however, when the underlying numerical model correctly describes natural behaviour. The rock bolts used in tunnel excavations are mostly untensioned grouted bolts, and this type of bolt is the main focus of this work. From the model of the grouted bolt, other types of rock bolts can also be modelled by the theory presented herein. Bolt behaviour in intact rock mass is so different from behaviour when a bolt intersects a joint, that a model with two different elements is suggested for a numerical calculation; one element for the bolt in the rock mass and one as a bolt intersecting with a joint.The model for both elements is verified by the experimental results. The numerical results correspond favourably with the experimental work. A variation of the parameters important for the behaviour of the bolt in intersection with the joint is shown. As an implementation of the bolt model, the numerical simulation of excavation and stabilisation of one road tunnel is presented.     

Nonlinear analysis of NATM tunnel construction with the boundary element method

This paper presents a novel approach to the simulation of NATM tunnel construction using the Boundary Element Method (BEM) as principal numerical method. This new approach has the advantage that only the excavation surface, the possible plastic zones and the tunnel lining have to be discretised. The whole rock mass is represented by the BEM whereas the Finite Element Method (FEM) is used to represent the tunnel lining only. Thus, a general coupling strategy for coupling three-dimensional boundary elements with shell finite elements (shotcrete) and beam finite elements (steel arches) is presented. To achieve realistic results the effect of hydration of the shotcrete and yielding of the steel arches is considered in the excavation process. Furthermore, the nonlinear rock behaviour is modelled more realistically by using a powerful hierarchical constitutive model which considers a large range of rock materials. The combination of these ideas results in higher user-friendliness and efficiency. Some verification tests and practical applications in tunnelling are presented.     

考虑流-固耦合的隧道开挖数值模拟

根据隧道工程施工实际情况和地下水渗流的基本规律,以及弹塑性力学理论,建立了在应力场和渗流场耦合作用下隧道开挖数学模型,借助Comsol模拟了隧道开挖过程中围岩应力场及渗流场的变化规律。研究结果表明：在原岩开挖时,隧道围岩变形及地面沉降大,不利于周围建筑的安全,隧道内积水,施工无法进行;进行灌浆处理后,围岩变形小,地面沉降得到控制,有利于施工及周围建筑的安全。     

Numerical analysis of the failure process around a circular opening in rock

Damage and fracture propagation around underground excavations are important issues in rock engineering. The analysis of quasi-brittle materials can be performed using constitutive laws based upon damage mechanics. The finite element code RFPA2D (Rock Failure Process Analysis) based on damage mechanics was used to simulate a loading-type failure process around an underground excavation (model tunnel) in brittle rock. One of the features of RFPA2D is the capability of modeling heterogeneous materials. In the current model, the effect of the homogeneous index (m) of rock on the failure modes of a model tunnel in rock was studied. In addition, by recording the number of damaged elements and the associated amount of energy released, RFPA2D is able to simulate acoustic activities around circular openings in rock. The results of a numerical simulation of a model tunnel were in very good agreement with the experimental test using the acoustic emission technique. Finally, the influence of the lateral confining pressure on the failure mechanism of the rock around the model tunnel was also investigated by numerical simulations.     

Numerical modelling of hydraulic decompression due to the excavation of tunnel and drifts at the Tournemire underground laboratory

The Tournemire underground laboratory is situated in a clay formation and consists of a disaffected railway tunnel and two perpendicular drifts. The paper presents modelling and 3D simulations of the hydraulic behaviour of the argillaceous formation around the works. Experimental measurements of porosity, permeability and specific storage coefficients allowed us to model the hydraulic properties of the shale. Numerical simulations are performed with the code CASTEM. Numerical results of hydraulic heads are compared to experimental measurements. Calculations show that the excavation of the tunnel and drifts has induced an hydraulic decompression of the indurated argillaceous formations. The zones of decompression are centred around the structures and extend depending on the values of hydraulic parameters such as permeability and specific storage selected in the model. Six years after the excavation of the drifts, the hydraulic steady state in the fractured zone is not yet reached.     

松散堆积体隧道围岩变形破坏细观特征研究

隧道穿越复杂松散堆积体地层时,如何确保隧道施工过程的安全是工程人员普遍关心的课题。依托云南省罗打拉隧道,基于Monte Carlo随机原理,结合数字图像处理技术,建立了考虑接触面单元及抗拉强度的堆积体地层隧道开挖细观结构模型,并探讨了隧道开挖引起的堆积体围岩变形、破坏过程以及失稳机制,并在现场进行应用验证。研究结果表明,构建的堆积体地层隧道开挖细观结构模型可有效反映隧道开挖过程中围岩的破坏过程,围岩位移等值线呈波动性与非对称性分布;围岩破坏以剪切破坏为主,局部存在拉裂?剪切复合破坏,且破坏区由边缘块石尖端向深层逐步扩展,形成包裹块石的剪切楔形区及拉剪松动圈,在施工扰动下易发生局部失稳。针对堆积体地层破坏特征,提出了围岩注浆加固措施,地层加固后土石颗粒间胶结良好,开挖轮廓周边形成有效的注浆加固圈,开挖支护过程围岩变形可控,支护结构稳定,效果良好,可为后续类似松散堆积体地层隧道的设计、施工提供新思路。     

搅拌桩加固挤土效应及在地铁隧道保护中的应用

在减小地基变形进行的深层搅拌桩加固时,加固本身的挤土效应对隧道变形产生了影响。为此,模拟了搅拌桩（DCM）侧向挤土效应的4种荷载模式,结合实测资料并采用数值试验验证了侧向挤土荷载模式的合理性。进一步应用该模式,通过有限元模拟了搅拌桩的加固挤土效应,分析讨论了不同加固顺序对地面变形,隧道变形以及长期蠕变变形的影响,结论表明,搅拌桩加固对地面环境影响是不可忽略,隧道周围搅拌桩施工顺序对隧道变形影响较大,搅拌桩加固后长期蠕变效应相对加固过程的变形很小。     

Manuel Rocha Medal Recipient Simulating the Time-dependent Behaviour of Excavations in Hard Rock

Summary Although hard rock is not usually associated with large creep deformation, data collected from the tunnels and stopes of the deep South African gold mines illustrates significant time-dependent behaviour. Apart from application in mining, a better understanding of the time-dependent behaviour of crystalline rock is required to analyse the long term stability of nuclear waste repositories and to design better support for deep civil engineering tunnels in these rock types. To illustrate the subtle problems associated with using viscoelastic theory to simulate the time-dependent behaviour of hard rock, a viscoelastic convergence solution for the incremental enlargement of a tabular excavation is discussed. Data on the time-dependent deformation of a tunnel developed in hard rock further illustrates the limitations of the theory, as it is unable to simulate the fracture zone around these excavations. To simulate the rheology of the fracture zone, a continuum viscoplastic approach was developed and implemented in a finite difference code. This proved more successful in modelling the time-dependent closure of stopes and squeezing conditions in hard rock tunnels. A continuum approach, however, has limitations in areas where the squeezing behaviour is dominated by the time-dependent behaviour of prominent discontinuities such as bedding planes. To overcome this problem, a viscoplastic displacement discontinuity technique was developed. This, combined with a tessellation approach, leads to more realistic modelling of the time-dependent behaviour of the fracture zone around excavations. Received January 15, 2002; accepted June 3, 2002 Published online September 2, 2002