Semi-analytical thermo-mechanical model for the shield tunnel segmental joint subjected to elevated temperatures

Abstract The segmental joint is the most critical component for determining the mechanical response of concrete segmental linings in a shield-tunnel structure. Existing segmental joint models have been developed mainly for the analysis of segmental lining design, but in the event of a fire, the conditions that a tunnel joint may experience could well exceed the normal design range. Consequently, the validity of the existing segmental joint models becomes questionable. In this paper, an improved semi-analytical thermo-mechanical model is derived based on the general plane joint model to consider the thermal effect induced by elevated temperatures. As a benchmark for the development of the model, a laboratory experiment was conducted on concrete lining segmental joints under elevated temperatures. The general heat transfer and special heat flow invading through the joint were deduced by theorical and numerical methods. A finite element (FE) model is developed and calibrated against experimental model tests, whilst the FE model is employed to generate the required parametric data, from which a fitting function is created. A temperature adjustment coefficient is introduced to improve the calculation of the joint section temperature field. The influence of elevated temperature and axial force on the bending moment of a segmental joint is also incorporated according to the stress state of the joint section. The validation of the proposed semi-analytical thermo-mechanical model is demonstrated through comparisons with the results of fire tests. Finally, the influences of the heating curves, bolt location, and axial load on the rotation stiffness of the joint are investigated using the proposed model.