STABILITY OF LARGE UNDERGROUND OPENINGS WITH CEMENT-ADMIXED SOIL SURROUND

Abstract

Tunnel stability is typically quantified using a stability number. However there is as yet a stability number that properly quantifies specifically a tunnel with an improved soil layer. This is true regardless of the shape of the tunnel. The failure modes of such tunnels have also not been qualified. In order to allow for engineers to easily adopt designs for such tunnel, a proper design framework, including failure maps and stability charts, are needed.

This study has shown that it is possible to design for tunnels with an improved soil layer. In addition the data gathered can quickly inform engineers on how to come up with efficient designs for such tunnels. However more can still be done to further integrate the random aspect with the design of such tunnels. In addition the size effect of the fibres can be explored further.