Ground characteristic curve for the relationship between load on tunnel support (supporting load) and ground displacement has been ofen used to evaluate the appropriatenesss and rationality of tunnel support. Though the curve is regarded as usuful, however, few studies have been made so far as how to obtain it.
In this study, attension has been given to the fact that loading and unloading occur simultaneously during borehole loading tests, showing stress paths similar to those during tunnel excavation. Model experiments, which simulate tunnel excavation and borehole loading test, were conducted, and the usefulness of borehole loading test in determining ground characteristic curve was considered. As a result, it has been confirmed that unloadingcurve obtainable from borehole loading test can be regarded as ground characteristic curve if it is modified so that displacement becomes zero when inner pressure is equal to initial ground pressure.
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