On the kinematics of 2D tunnel collapse in undrained clay

A kinematic plastic solution has been developed for ground movements around a shallow, unlined tunnel embedded within an undrained clay layer. In this solution, the pattern of deformation around the tunnel is idealised by a simple plastic deformation mechanism. Within the boundaries of the deformation mechanism, the soil is required to shear compatibly and continuously with no relative sliding at the boundaries. The soil is regarded here as a rigid plastic (Tresca) material. The plausibility of the proposed mechanism is demonstrated by comparison with limit analysis calculations and centrifuge test results.