Seismic Fragility Curves of Combined Multiple Tunnel Complexes in Soft Soils

Abstract

Seismic fragility assessment is the probability of damage exceeding a certain design limit. The dynamic performance of a combined multiple tunnel complex is less explored and requires thorough study. This research is based on the numerical approach to evaluate the damage caused to the two new types of tunnel complexes, i.e. twin and triple tunnel complexes in a soft soil profile. A two-dimensional (2D) finite element analysis is performed to determine the induced bending moments for each of the tunnel complexes and develop the seismic fragility curves. A set of full acceleration-time histories are applied to the soil–tunnel complex system by varying embedment depths in different soft soil profiles. From the results, it is concluded that increasing the embedment ratio results in an increased probability of tunnel damage. The developed fragility curves are also inter-compared for both the tunnel complexes to evaluate the better performer during a seismic event. This study serves as an initial step toward the guidelines to determine the percentage of incurred damage and design the combined multiple tunnel complex in a seismic-prone area.