Visco-plastic behaviour around advancing tunnels in squeezing rock

Summary: The visco-plastic behaviour of rocks plays a relevant role in the tunnelling works, especially for deep tunnels subjected to large initial stresses for which squeezing conditions may develop. A rheological model is discussed that accounts for visco-elastic (primary) and visco-plastic (secondary) contributions to rock creep. The effects of tertiary creep are included in the model by way of a gradual mechanical damage governed by the cumulated visco-plastic strains. The parameters of the intact rock are first identified based on laboratory test results presented in the literature. Then, after scaling them to those of the rock mass, the potential applicability of the model is tested through axisymmetric and plane strain finite element analyses of the full face excavation of a deep circular tunnel. The results are discussed with particular reference to the short term redistribution of stresses around the opening and to its convergence. The analyses show the relevant influence of tertiary creep on the tunnel closure. In addition, those based on an axisymmetric scheme turn out to be crucial for the correct long term prediction of the interaction between the rock mass and the supporting structure of the opening.