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  • Investigating the Influence...
    Abdellah, Wael R.; Butt, Stephen D.; Abdullah, Ahmed I.; Towfeek, Ahmed Rushdy; Ali, Mahrous A. M.

    Geotechnical and geological engineering, 01/2024, Volume: 42, Issue: 1
    Journal Article

    This research investigates the influence of rock joint dip angle and spacing on the performance of arched roof tunnels. A sensitivity analysis was conducted using Rocscience RS2 software, enabling the evaluation of stress distribution and rock mass deformation. The analysis involved the identification of specific reference points on the tunnel’s back, walls, and floor to assess stress state, deformation, and the extent of plastic damage zones near the tunnel’s perimeter, in relation to the minimum embedment length of the primary rock support. The results revealed distinct stress patterns within the tunnel system. Tensile-induced stresses were minimal along the tunnel walls, while high compressive-induced stresses were observed around the tunnel’s back/roof and floor. Additionally, substantial rock deformation was observed at the tunnel’s periphery, as evidenced by measurements taken at the reference points. Notably, an increase in the dip angle of the joints resulted in reduced displacement, suggesting a potential strategy for mitigating deformation. Furthermore, the research highlighted the crucial role of joint spacing in ensuring tunnel stability. Decreasing joint spacing was found to impact tunnel stability significantly adversely, underscoring the importance of carefully considering joint spacing during the design and construction phases of arched roof tunnels. The analysis was validated by comparing the numerical modeling results with readings obtained from Multi-Points Borehole Extensometers (MPBXs) installed in the tunnel walls and roof. The comparison revealed variations of 16% at the tunnel’s right wall, 11% at the tunnel’s left wall, and 12% at the tunnel roof.