The effect of pore-water pressure on NATM tunnel linings in decomposed granite soil

Tunnelling in a water bearing soil often produces a long-term interaction between the tunnel lining and the surrounding soil. With respect to lining design, infiltration and external pore-water pressures are often one of the most important factors to be considered. Development of pore-water pressure may accelerate leakage and cause deterioration of the lining. This can be particularly troublesome to structural and functional components of the tunnel and can often lead to structural failure. However, as a result of the complicated hydraulic boundary conditions and the long times often required for pore pressure equilibration, research on this subject is scarce. Consequently, most design approaches deal with the effects of pore-water pressure on the tunnel lining in a qualitative manner. In this paper, the development of pore-water pressure and its potential effects on the tunnel lining are investigated using the finite element method. In particular, the deterioration of a drainage system caused by clogging is considered. It is shown that the development of pore-water pressure on the lining is dependent on the lining permeability and the deterioration of the drainage system, particularly for a tunnel with both a primary and a secondary lining. The magnitude of pore-water pressure on a new Austrian tunnelling method (NATM) tunnel constructed in decomposed granite soil and the effect of tunnel shape are investigated. Design curves for estimating pore-water pressure loads on a secondary lining are proposed.