- Vast knowledge has been developed in the area of tunnelling in weak rocks over the years, and this book bridges an important gap by bringing all the information together for the benefit of the tunnelling Industry. In particular, tunnelling in poor conditions is a huge challenge for engineers and designers, and this book tackles all typical problems headon. Topics covered include classification approach, design approaches for site-specific grounds, a new invention on shielded tunnel boring machine, case histories, tunnel mechanics, risk engineering and management culture. Based on extensive field research experiences in Himalayan region and Alps. Exclusive chapters on tunnelling hazards, squeezing ground conditions (a full detailed case study), swelling ground conditions, critical state rock mechanics, etc. Supported by over 180 figures and 90 tables of data, and test examples (with solutions)
- The basic approach in the design of underground support system has been an empirical approach based on rock mass classification. This approach was the subject of the authors’ first book, Rock Mass Classification – A Practical Approach in Civil Engineering (1999), which has been enjoyed by the experts all over the world. Lately, however, a growing need for reliable software packages to aid engineering control of landslide and tunneling hazards has inspired the writing of the next book on Software for Engineering Control of Landslide and Tunnelling Hazards based on the use of a rational approach to check the empirical predictions to be sure of the solution. The instant liking and success of these two books further boosted our morale and we have written this book on Tunnelling in Weak Rocks, which is based on intensive field-oriented research work and experience. It is expected that the book will generate more confidence and interest among civil and mining design and construction engineers, geologists, geophysicists, managers, planners, researchers and students. The set of three complementary books that we have produced has been possible due to God’s grace, team-work and worldwide acceptance and moral support. Emphasis is given to the practical-construction solution of tunnelling hazard control rather than any rigorous analytical/numerical methods. Practical knowledge of the engineering behavior of rock masses, discontinuities, the time-tested classification approach, tunnelling hazards, and simple analytical methods are also offered to add to the understanding of realistic actual construction approach.