A finite strain solution for the elastoplastic ground response curve in tunnelling: rocks with non‐linear failure envelopes

Abstract

SummaryThis paper generalizes the finite strain Coulomb solution of Vrakas and Anagnostou (Int J Numer Anal Meth Geomech 2014; 38(11): 1131–1148) for the classic tunnel mechanics problem of the ground response curve to elastoplastic grounds satisfying a non‐linear Mohr's failure criterion. A linear (Coulomb‐type) plastic potential function is used, leading to a non‐associated flow law, and edge plastic flow is considered in the plastic zone. The solution for a general non‐linear Mohr's failure criterion is semi‐analytical in that it requires the evaluation of definite integrals. In the special case of the Hoek–Brown criterion, however, these integrals are calculated analytically, resulting in a rigorous closed‐form series solution. The applicability of the derived solution is illustrated through the example of the Yacambú‐Quibor tunnel, where very large deformations were observed when crossing of weak graphitic phyllites. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.