Effects of embedded walls on tunnelling-induced sandy ground displacements: a numerical investigation

Xu, Jingmin; Zheng, Luorui; Song, Geyang; Zhang, Dingwen; Sheil, Brian; Marshall, Alec M.

Abstract

Urban tunnelling projects pose significant risks to the integrity of nearby structures due to ground movements induced by the excavation process. Embedded walls are commonly employed as a protective measure to mitigate these adverse effects. This paper presents a comprehensive numerical investigation into the effects of embedded walls on tunnelling-induced ground displacements, aiming to provide insights and recommendations for optimal embedded wall design. The study assesses the impact of varying embedded wall length and horizontal distance from the tunnel on soil settlement and horizontal displacements. Results demonstrate the complex interplay between embedded wall length, horizontal distance, and ground movement patterns, and the highly non-linear influence of key parameters on embedded wall efficiency (i.e. its ability to reduce settlements). A preliminary design chart is proposed to guide engineers in determining the appropriate horizontal location and depth of embedded walls to effectively reduce tunnelling- induced ground displacements. The findings contribute to a better understanding of embedded wall performance in the context of tunnelling and provide valuable guidance for the practical design and implementation of protective measures in urban areas.

Citation

Xu, J., Zheng, L., Song, G., Zhang, D., Sheil, B., & Marshall, A. M. (2025). Effects of embedded walls on tunnelling-induced sandy ground displacements: a numerical investigation. Géotechnique, 75(4), 472-485. https://doi.org/10.1680/jgeot.23.00307

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 24, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Mar 21, 2024
• Publication Date: 2025-04
• Deposit Date: Feb 26, 2024
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 22, 2025
• Journal: Géotechnique
• Print ISSN: 0016-8505
• Electronic ISSN: 1751-7656
• Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 75
• Issue: 4
• Pages: 472-485
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1680/jgeot.23.00307
• Keywords: Diaphragm & in situ walls; Ground movements; Numerical modelling; Soil/structure interaction; Tunnels & Tunnelling
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/31884522
• Publisher URL: https://www.icevirtuallibrary.com/doi/abs/10.1680/jgeot.23.00307