Numerical study on seismic performance of a prefabricated subway station considering the influence of construction process

Abstract

In previous seismic analyses of cast-in-place stations, the importance of the construction process was typically not emphasized. Unlike cast-in-place stations, prefabricated subway stations feature innovative construction methods. The effect of ignoring the complete construction process on the seismic performance of prefabricated subway stations remains unclear, and this study aims to address this issue. In this research, a three-dimensional nonlinear numerical model considering soil-structure interaction (SSI) was established. First, the complete construction process of the station, including excavation of the foundation pit and structural assembly, was replicated. The initial state before dynamic loading was clearly defined. Subsequently, the seismic response mechanisms of the station, including deformation, SSI, acceleration, and internal forces, were thoroughly investigated, revealing the impact of structural type and construction method on seismic performance. The results indicate that neglecting the complete construction process leads to differences in the initial state before dynamic loading, resulting in variations in seismic response. Specifically, ignoring the assembly process causes an average bending moment error of 59 % and an axial force error of 35 % for each component. By comprehensively analyzing these findings, a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between assembly techniques, structural behavior, and construction processes in seismic contexts can be attained, thereby informing more robust engineering practices.