Abstract
Considering the spatial variability of rock masses in tunnelling analysis is a challenge in geotechnical engineering. This paper focuses on predicting collapse loads and probabilities of design failure for dual circular tunnels constructed in anisotropic rock masses. This study employs the random adaptive finite element limit analysis method, which incorporates rotated anisotropic random fields, to model uncertainties in rock mass properties. The generalised Hoek–Brown constitutive model is employed to define the yield failure criteria of a rock mass. The adaptive finite element limit analysis is first validated against a previous study, demonstrating good agreement. Then, the probability of design failure for dual circular tunnels is comprehensively investigated. This study emphasises the importance of considering both geometric parameters and rotated anisotropic random fields in comprehensive probabilistic analyses. The results provide insights into the mean and coefficient of variation of the stability numbers, as well as the probability of design failure for different geometric configurations and rotated anisotropic random fields. In conclusion, the variation in failure probability for practical applications is presented, highlighting the significance of accounting for spatial variability, rotation angle and anisotropy in rock mass properties in tunnelling.
Published Version
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