Recent research published in the journal Applied Sciences has unveiled critical insights into how rock thermal stress impacts the stability of deep-buried tunnels, particularly those subjected to high geothermal temperatures. Conducted by Yucong Yin and his team from the College of Water Resources and Construction Engineering at Shihezi University in China, the study focuses on the plastic zone—the area around a tunnel that experiences deformation and potential failure—highlighting its morphology and expansion patterns under extreme conditions.
As infrastructure projects grow in complexity and scale, particularly in regions with high geothermal activity like Xinjiang, understanding the behavior of the surrounding rock becomes vital for ensuring the safety and longevity of tunnels. The findings indicate that thermal stress, which arises from temperature variations in the rock, can significantly alter the size and shape of the plastic zone. While it slows down the growth of this zone, it simultaneously increases its overall extent, a factor that cannot be overlooked in tunnel design and construction.
Yin emphasizes the importance of these findings, stating, “Thermal stress in the rock mass slows the growth of the plastic zone but significantly increases its extent.” This dual effect poses challenges for engineers and construction companies as they work to design effective support structures and thermal insulation layers to mitigate potential damage.
The research also reveals that while thermal stress plays a role in shaping the plastic zone, it is the lateral pressure coefficient that has a more pronounced effect on its morphology. The study categorizes the plastic zone shapes based on varying lateral pressures, showing that different conditions can lead to circular, elliptical, or even butterfly-shaped expansions. This detailed understanding of how these factors interact provides essential data for engineers tasked with navigating the complexities of tunnel construction in challenging geological environments.
For sectors involved in civil engineering, infrastructure development, and geothermal energy, these findings present both challenges and opportunities. Companies engaged in tunnel construction can leverage this research to enhance their design strategies, ensuring that support systems are robust enough to handle the unique stresses posed by high geothermal temperatures. Furthermore, this study may lead to innovations in materials and construction techniques that can better withstand these conditions, ultimately reducing costs and improving safety in deep-buried tunnel projects.
As China continues to push forward with ambitious infrastructure initiatives, including those under the Belt and Road Initiative, understanding the implications of rock thermal stress will be crucial for the success of future projects. The research conducted by Yin and his colleagues not only contributes to academic knowledge but also serves as a practical guide for industry professionals navigating the complexities of tunnel construction in challenging environments, thereby promoting safer and more efficient engineering practices.
