Abstract: | In this paper, closed-form solutions for the stresses and displacements around unlined circular tunnels excavated in an elastic, orthotropic (cross-anisotropic) medium are developed. The effect of both the elastic parameters characterizing the behaviour of the medium and the anisotropy of the initial stress system on the stresses and displacements induced are evaluated. An example of utilizing the theoretical solution for design analysis is given. For convenience of application, design charts are prepared for the determination of stresses and displacements for given values of initial stresses and the elastic parameters. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |