Mechanism and prevention of progressive collapse in segmental tunnel linings

Researchers:

• Qihao Sun
• Xian Liu (supervisor)
• Wouter De Corte (supervisor)
• Luc Taerwe (supervisor)

Description:

Tunnel collapse accidents have occurred frequently in construction. However, there is no mature theory and research on the mechanism and control measures of the progressive collapse of segmental tunnels. Therefore, research on the mechanism and prevention of progressive collapse in segmental tunnel linings is carried out. Three methods including case investigation and analysis, full-scale test and centrifugal model test, and FEM-SPH numerical simulation are adopted to investigate the collapse mechanism. Firstly, the accident cases of the segmental tunnels are collected and analyzed to provide a reference for subsequent experiments and numerical simulations. Then the full-scale tests on segments, joints, and the entire linings are carried out to understand the failure mechanism of the tunnel lining structure itself. Based on the results of the full-scale test, the centrifugal model tests are chosen to simulate the entire process of tunnel collapse and failure in soil. Finally, the SPH method and the FEM method are coupled to simulate the complicated process of tunnel collapse and reveal efficient prevention measures.  

Partner:

Funding:

CSC number: 202106260163