Resilience Assessment of Tunnels Exposed to Blast (UTI-UTC 33)

This project aims to evaluate and enhance the resilience of tunnel systems subjected to internal blast loads, focusing on both structural integrity and functional performance. Through a combination of computational simulations and experimental validation, the research assesses the dynamic response of tunnel liners, surrounding soil, and structural components to blast-induced pressures. A simplified modeling approach using a single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) framework, supported by Winkler foundation theory, is developed to predict deformation and failure mechanisms in reinforced concrete tunnel linings. The model's reliability is verified using data from large-scale testing and finite element analysis. By quantifying damage thresholds and recovery metrics, the project provides tunnel designers and operators with practical tools to evaluate tunnel vulnerability, develop mitigation strategies, and prioritize retrofitting efforts. This work contributes to safer and more resilient underground transportation infrastructure capable of withstanding high-consequence events.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Completed
• Funding: $191,690.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3551747118

• Sponsor Organizations:

  University Transportation Center for Underground Transportation Infrastructure

  Colorado School of Mines
  Golden, CO  United States  80401

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  Colorado School of Mines

  1500 Illinois St
  Golden, CO  United States  80401

  Lehigh University

  ATLSS Engineering Research Center
  IMBT Laboratory
  Bethlehem, PA  United States  18015-4729
• Performing Organizations:

  Lehigh University

  ATLSS Engineering Research Center
  IMBT Laboratory
  Bethlehem, PA  United States  18015-4729
• Principal Investigators:

  Naito , Clay

  Quiel , Spencer

• Start Date: 20190501
• Expected Completion Date: 20220430
• Actual Completion Date: 20220501
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Blast loads; Disaster resilience; Predictive models; Soil structure interaction; Tunnel lining
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Geotechnology; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01954477
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: University Transportation Center for Underground Transportation Infrastructure
• Contract Numbers: 69A3551747118
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: May 7 2025 5:10PM