A theoretical method of mechanical analysis for a circular tunnel reinforced by fully grouted rock bolts

Analysis of the mechanical behavior of rock mass reinforced by fully grouted rock bolts is introduced based on the interaction between the rock mass and the bolts. The model is based on the following premises: (1) the elastic behavior of the rock mass and rock bolts; (2) the plane strain condition; (3) a deeply buried circular tunnel; (4) complete contact between the bolts and the surrounding rock, that is, they are bonded together; (5) the loads on the surrounding rock from the fully grouted rock bolts are replaced by innumerable concentrated forces along the longitudinal direction of the bolts. For this, the analytical radial displacement solution for a deeply buried circular tunnel subjected to concentrated forces at arbitrary points in surrounding rock is derived. As long as this displacement solution is integrated along the length direction of the bolt, the effect of the bolt on the surrounding rock can be obtained. According to the complete contact condition at the anchoring interface and the force balance condition of the bolts, under the action of the in situ stress, linear equations made up of shear stresses on the bolts are established, from which the distribution of shear stresses and axial forces along the bolts can be solved. Model simulations confirm the previous findings that each installed bolt has a pick-up length, an anchor length and a neutral point. Besides, the influence of the parameters of the rock bolts and the surrounding rock are discussed. The conclusion is consistent with the results of a practical project without adopting any empirical equations. The results of this method can provide a theoretical basis for the design and layout of rock bolts in underground caverns.