Performance indicator of tunnel linings under geotechnical uncertainty. Issue 2 (April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Spyridis, Panagiotis; Konstantis, Spyridon; Gakis, Angelos
• Is Part Of: Geomechanik und Tunnelbau. Volume 9:Issue 2(2016:Apr.)
• Page Start: 158
• Page End: 164
• Publication Date: 2016-04
• Subjects: lining design -- capacity utilization -- reliability; Support ‐ Stützmittel -- Structural analysis ‐ Statik; Engineering geology -- Periodicals; Soil mechanics -- Periodicals; Rock mechanics -- Periodicals; Tunneling -- Periodicals; 624.151
• DOI: 10.1002/geot.201500026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1865-7362

Abstract

Abstract: In the process of dimensioning a tunnel lining support an optimized structural system is pursued that can accommodate the inherent uncertainties associated with the geotechnical, hydro‐geological, and environmental conditions. Particularly for geotechnics, uncertainty has become a major issue of scientific discussion according to a number of recent publications. At the same time, advanced performance criteria often require probabilistic assessments in order to quantify a structure's safety and reliability or to inform life‐cycle engineering decisions. This contribution demonstrates a novel design approach for the design assessment of concrete tunnel linings. The Index for the Capacity Utilization of Linings in Tunnels (CULT‐I) introduced herein, facilitates the quantification of reliability of a tunnel lining support, while it aids toward a rationalized, performance‐based design optimization with considerations on geotechnical uncertainty. A typical case of a shallow urban tunnel excavated in soft ground using the TBM method is presented, demonstrating the practical application and feasibility of the proposed approach.