The geotechnical modeling of interaction between a large-sized lowered structure and heterogeneous soil environment in the process of embedment

Abstract

Introduction. The use of extremely deep and large underground spaces in case of complex geoengineering and hydrogeological conditions is a challenging geotechnical task. The accumulated experience of using the embedment method, that entails the construction of a geotechnical and hydrotechnical enclosure, which is at the same time a reliable bearing structure, has proven a strong technical and economic potential and good prospects for expanding the scope of its application. The study of interaction between large-sized reinforced concrete shells at the stages of their construction in heterogeneous soil environments allowed expanding the scope of their rational use in the subterranean construction that deals with transport and engineering infrastructure facilities. The defect-free construction of a subterranean structure of this type requires a consolidated solution for complex nonlinear design and geotechnical problems.
 Materials and methods. The non-stationarity of processes of interaction between a massive structure and the soil environment, as well as the heterogeneity of the environment itself necessitate the development of methods of adaptive control over the stress-strain state of the system that encompasses “a large gravitational body and the heterogeneous environment”. The consolidated geotechnical and structural analysis allows simulating processes of interaction between the shell and the soil environment and prognosticating the parameters of adaptive control over the stress-strain state of the system.
 Results. The application of adaptive stress-strain control methods lays the groundwork for a defect-free lifecycle of a structure at the stages of its construction and operation in problematic soils under man-induced impacts.
 Conclusions. Unlike the traditional approach, the method, proposed by the author, encompasses the fundamentals of a new concept for assessing the interaction between large-sized structures, embedded in variable strength soils, taking into account the irregularity of the embedment mode and results of its practical implementation focused on the geotechnical support of a defect-free life cycle of unique large-sized subterranean structures at the construction stage.