In the bustling city of Hangzhou, where the ancient and modern worlds collide, a team of researchers from Zhejiang University and Hohai University has made a groundbreaking discovery that could reshape how we approach ultra-deep excavations in soft clay. Led by XIONG Yifan and YING Hongwei, the team delved into the complexities of ground settlement, a critical factor in construction projects, particularly those involving energy infrastructure. Their findings, published in Shanghai Jiaotong University Journal, offer a fresh perspective on how time and space influence these settlements, with significant implications for the energy sector.
The research, a collaborative effort between academia and industry, including China Railway 11th Bureau Group Co., Ltd., focused on the B2 excavation site within an ultra-deep excavation group. The team employed PLAXIS 3D software and a soft soil creep model to create a 3D numerical model, allowing them to analyze the effects of time-space factors on ground settlements. This approach is a significant departure from traditional methods, which often overlook the temporal and spatial dynamics of soft soil behavior.
“The excavation area determines the construction duration when the excavation depth and rate are identical, impacting ground settlements induced by soft soil creep,” XIONG Yifan, the lead author, explained. This insight underscores the importance of considering the excavation area’s influence on construction timelines and soil behavior.
The team introduced the complementary error function and trilinear model to enhance their analysis, correcting numerical results to predict ground settlements more accurately. Their findings revealed that soft soil creep not only causes additional wall deflections resulting in soil settlements but also induces soil settlements independent of these deflections. This dual impact highlights the complexity of soft soil behavior and the need for more sophisticated modeling techniques.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. Ultra-deep excavations are often required for energy infrastructure projects, such as power plants and underground storage facilities. Accurate prediction of ground settlements is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of these structures. The research by XIONG Yifan and his team provides a rapid approach for predicting ground settlements, accounting for temporal and spatial influences. This could lead to more efficient and cost-effective construction practices, reducing the risk of delays and failures.
The research also emphasizes the importance of considering soft soil creep in construction planning. Ignoring this factor can lead to significant underestimation of ground settlements, potentially compromising the integrity of energy infrastructure projects. By incorporating these findings into their planning and design processes, energy companies can mitigate risks and ensure the longevity of their investments.
The study’s innovative approach and practical applications have the potential to shape future developments in the field of geotechnical engineering. As the demand for energy infrastructure continues to grow, especially in urban areas with soft clay soils, the need for accurate and reliable prediction models becomes increasingly important. The team’s work sets a new standard for understanding and managing ground settlements in ultra-deep excavations, paving the way for more resilient and sustainable construction practices.
The research published in Shanghai Jiaotong University Journal, translated to English as ‘Journal of Shanghai Jiaotong University’, serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between academic institutions and industry partners. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex engineering challenges and highlights the potential for innovation in the energy sector.