Simulation of Shotcrete in RC Tunnel Using Finite Element Method

Abstract

Nowadays, tunnels are gaining importance with the developing transportation networks. Different solutions are made in the design of tunnels according to the land structure and ground condition. Various retrofitting methods are used in damaged tunnels. Especially in recent years, natural disasters in the world have also affected the tunnels. There may be damage and collapse in the tunnels during and after the disaster. It is predicted that in the event of a possible collapse in the event of a disaster, loss of life and property may also occur. After the disaster, even if the tunnels have not collapsed, they are damaged. In this case, collapse may occur in the next disaster due to collapse or environmental vibrations. It is also known that in post-disaster situations, it is vital that the transportation network remains active in order to deliver the necessary aid to the region. For all these reasons, in this study, the shotcrete method, which is one of the retrofitting methods of tunnels, is mentioned. Thus, the effect of the shotcrete method applied on an exemplary tunnel on modal parameters has been demonstrated. In this comparative study, it was observed that the stiffness of the tunnel increased with the shotcrete method. As a result of this study, it is suggested to retrofitting the tunnels with the shotcrete method, taking into account the state of the tunnel lining or mirror and environmental factors.