Finite Element Analysis for the Stress Field and Seepage Field Interaction within Qingdao Submarine Tunnel Rockmass

Abstract

The submarine geology characteristic for Qingdao submarine tunnel is fracture and fragmentation with smash rock mass and unevenly distributed rock mass strength. The submarine tunnel is excavated in a weathered rock mass containing water. Before the tunnel lining is constructed, it is important to assure the stability and safety for the rock tunnel and tunnel lining structure during construction and operational periods. As the submarine tunnel is under severe condition, the rock mass stabilization is to a large extent to be determined by the underwater seepage effect. It is fundamental to investigate how the seawater interacts with the tunnel rock mass stress field. To investigate the interaction between the rock mass seepage field and the secondary stress field, the nonlinear finite element software ABAQUS is used to analyze the interaction behavior between the rock mass seepage effect and the tunnel secondary stress field. The rock mass seepage field, stress field are analyzed in detail using the numerical simulation method. Also, the distribution of the tunnel rock mass plastic region is obtained. The numerical analysis results provide guidance for the submarine tunnel construction.