Finite Analysis of Support Time for Tunnels in Strain-softening Rock Mass in Consideration of Fictitious Support Pressure

Abstract

This study considers that the support time is quantitatively determined by the production limit of the displacement reduction factor and the support force under the extrusion conditions of the strain-softening rock mass. Therefore, the two indicators of the downlines under the support time are the displacement reduction factor of the support force and the yield limit. Based on the solution of the fictitious pressure proposed in an existing paper, the finite difference method is adopted to investigate the variations of the support force and displacement reduction factor versus the delayed distance considering different support types, initial stresses, and post-peak behaviours. The results show that on the one hand, the delay distance is suggested within 1 R0 in most tunnel cases; on the other hand, the factors have greater impact on rock-support interactions are rock mass and in-situ stress. Relatively contrast, softening and expansion behavior was not significant enough. Furthermore, it is also very important in composite support systems to assess the proportion of loads shared with the weakest part.