The model test on the interaction between tunnel lining reinforced by steel plate and surrounding soil

Abstract

The loading test was carried out to examine the interaction between tunnel lining reinforced by steel plate and surrounding soil. Loading device was designed to observe two dimensional behavior of structures. Surrounding soil was simulated by steel rod layer so that it satisfies Mohr-Coulomb failure criteria. Steel rod layer can be set either stiff or soft by side wall supporting condition.
From test results, thin steel plate is sufficient to reinforce damaged tunnel lining under relatively stiff soil condition. Under such stiff soil conditions, vertical load is mainly supported by surrounding soil in case of using flexible thin steel plate and small force is occured in steel plate.