Exploring Lateral Movement Coefficient's Influence on Ground Movement Patterns in Shallow Urban Tunnels

Abstract

In its natural state, the ground experiences geostatic stresses, which tunnel excavation disrupts, inducing both elastic and plastic deformations in the areas surrounding the tunnel. Consequently, displacements occur in the vicinity of the tunnel and at the Earth's surface. These displacements have the potential to inflict damage on existing structures and pose environmental hazards. To mitigate these adverse consequences, accurate prediction of these changes is imperative. Several factors influence these movements, with the lateral earth pressure coefficient (K₀) being a pivotal parameter. This paper delves into the repercussions of varying K0 values on surface movements, encompassing both longitudinal and Lateral directions, within shallow urban tunnels is investigated using two excavation methods, NATM and TBM. The study leverages numerical simulations facilitated by the PLAXIS 3D TUNNEL software, with the results meticulously presented separately. The primary objective of this research is to furnish valuable insights into the intricacies of tunneling-induced ground movements, offering pragmatic implications for the field of tunnel engineering practices and the broader realm of urban infrastructure development.