Simplified Calculation of Liner and Soil Deformations in Tunnels Subjected to Internal Explosions (UTI-UTC 34)

This project aims to develop a simplified analytical framework for evaluating the structural response of tunnel liners and surrounding soil systems subjected to internal explosive loads. By applying a single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) model integrated with Winkler foundation principles, the research provides a practical and efficient method for estimating deformation behavior without the need for full-scale numerical simulations. The framework accounts for varying explosive intensities, tunnel geometry, and material properties to predict the extent of structural damage and ground-structure interaction. Validation is conducted through comparisons with experimental data and higher-fidelity simulations. The outcomes of this project contribute to improving the design and resilience assessment of underground transportation tunnels, especially in scenarios involving accidental or intentional explosive threats.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Completed
• Funding: $56,379.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3551747118

• Sponsor Organizations:

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590

  University Transportation Center for Underground Transportation Infrastructure

  Colorado School of Mines
  Golden, CO  United States  80401
• Managing Organizations:

  Colorado School of Mines

  1500 Illinois St
  Golden, CO  United States  80401

  California State University, Los Angeles

  5151 State University Drive
  Los Angeles, California  United States  90032
• Performing Organizations:

  California State University, Los Angeles

  5151 State University Drive
  Los Angeles, California  United States  90032
• Principal Investigators:

  Rodriguez-Nikl, Tonatiuh

• Start Date: 20210501
• Expected Completion Date: 20230430
• Actual Completion Date: 20230501
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers

Subject/Index Terms

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

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01954476
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: University Transportation Center for Underground Transportation Infrastructure
• Contract Numbers: 69A3551747118
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: May 7 2025 5:05PM