Evaluating the Impact of Tunnel Shape on Shotcrete Lining Stress: Implications for Tunnel Design and Construction

EasyChair Preprint 14756

Abstract

The design and construction of tunnels involve critical considerations regarding the stability and durability of shotcrete linings. This study investigates the influence of tunnel shape on the stress distribution within shotcrete linings, a crucial factor in ensuring structural integrity and longevity. By analyzing various tunnel geometries—circular, elliptical, and horseshoe-shaped—through a combination of field data and finite element modeling, we assess how different shapes affect stress concentrations and overall lining performance. Our findings reveal significant variations in stress distribution related to tunnel shape, with horseshoe-shaped tunnels demonstrating lower peak stress levels compared to circular and elliptical profiles. This study highlights the implications of these findings for tunnel design, suggesting that optimal tunnel geometry can enhance shotcrete lining performance and reduce the risk of structural failure. The results provide valuable insights for engineers and designers aiming to optimize tunnel construction practices and improve safety and cost-effectiveness in subterranean projects.

Keyphrases: Designers, Engineers, construction, cost-effectiveness, subterranean projects, tunnel

@booklet{EasyChair:14756,
  author    = {Edwin Frank},
  title     = {Evaluating the Impact of Tunnel Shape on Shotcrete Lining Stress: Implications for Tunnel Design and Construction},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint 14756},
  year      = {EasyChair, 2024}}