Displacements induced by tunnelling under a historical building

Abstract

Underground construction in historic urban environment requires a careful prediction of the expected displacement field to avoid damages or to undertake preventative measures. The empirical method to predict ground movements in greenfield conditions (Peck, 1969; Attwell and Woodman, 1982) is routinely used. A more accurate prediction can be obtained via numerical analysis. A preliminary greenfield 3D FEM model was calibrated to analyse a stretch of a tunnel under construction in Napoli. Subsequently an interaction analysis has been carried out modelling an existing monumental building. Both the geometry of the intersection and the soil layering suggested using a 3D numerical model. The building was modelled as a stiff plate loaded by a uniform surface load. A satisfactory agreement between predictions and measurements was obtained with the interaction analysis.