A Computational framework for evaluating three-dimensional segmental tunnel–ground interaction under long-term joint leakage
As a common defect in present-day segmental tunnels, joint leakage induces significant mechanical responses in the ground–tunnel system in both transverse and longitudinal directions. However, its long-term impacts, influenced by gasket ageing, bi-directional hydraulic conditions, and coupled with j...
| Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | article |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Country: | España |
| Institution: | Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC) |
| Repository: | UPCommons. Portal del coneixement obert de la UPC |
| Language: | English |
| OAI Identifier: | oai:upcommons.upc.edu:2117/458973 |
| Online Access: | https://hdl.handle.net/2117/458973 https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tust.2026.107570 |
| Access Level: | Embargoed access |
| Keyword: | Segmental tunnel Joint leakage Sealant performance Hydro-mechanical coupling Mechanical response Àrees temàtiques de la UPC::Enginyeria civil::Geotècnia::Túnels i excavacions |
| Summary: | As a common defect in present-day segmental tunnels, joint leakage induces significant mechanical responses in the ground–tunnel system in both transverse and longitudinal directions. However, its long-term impacts, influenced by gasket ageing, bi-directional hydraulic conditions, and coupled with joint deformations, remain insufficiently explored. To bridge this gap, a three-dimensional FEM-based computational framework is proposed as a general computational approach for segmental tunnels, incorporating several theoretical models to comprehensively capture the hydro-mechanical coupled behaviours at gasketed joints. A user subroutine-based algorithm is implemented to perform iterative analysis throughout the long-term leakage simulation. The feasibility and capability of this framework are demonstrated through application to a deeply buried water sewage tunnel case in the clayey strata of Shanghai, showcasing a special bi-directional leakage scenario. The lining model is validated against full-scale test data, and a hybrid model is further developed to improve computational efficiency. Parametric studies investigate the effects of initial joint imperfections, gasket configurations, and internal water pressure. The results reveal that localised leakage in a ring significantly increases bending moments while reducing axial forces, accompanied by notable transverse settlement. In the longitudinal direction, a settlement trough of approximately 300 m and widespread groundwater drawdown is observed. The tunnel crown experiences the highest longitudinal forces, with a 120-m-long section subjected to additional longitudinal compression. Localised leakage-induced longitudinal joint deformation is insignificant. Under extreme filling water conditions, the leakage transitions from infiltration to exfiltration, inducing reversed structural responses to those observed during infiltration. |
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