A Review of Seismic Damage of Mountain Tunnels and Probable Failure Mechanisms

Severe cases of damages of mountain tunnels following 1995 Hyogoken-Nanbu (Japan), 1999 Chi-Chi (Taiwan), 2004 Mid-Niigata Prefecture (Japan) and 2008 Wenchuan (China) earthquakes have challenged the traditional belief of tunnel structures being seldom damaged in seismic events. These experiences are a reminder that seismic behaviour of mountain tunnels must be further studied in detail. Such investigations assume greater significance as more number of tunnels are being planned to be constructed to meet the infrastructural needs of mountainous regions all around the world. In this paper, seismic damages of mountain tunnels have been reviewed. Prominent failure patterns have been identified based on the case histories of damages. Damages in the form of cracking of tunnel lining, portal cracking, landslide induced failures, uplift of bottom pavement, failures of sidewalls, shearing failure of tunnel liner and spalling of concrete have been majorly observed. Based on the damage patterns and earthquake data, main factors leading to instabilities have been discussed. Probable failure mechanisms of mountain tunnels under seismic loading conditions have been explained. Seismic analyses of a circular lined tunnel in blocky rock mass have been carried out through discrete element based approach. The significant role of different seismic parameters like frequency, peak ground acceleration has been identified. Moreover, effect of tunnel depth on the seismic response of tunnels has been investigated. It is believed that the present study will help in advancing the present state of understanding with regard to the behavior of tunnels under seismic conditions.