Influence of tunnelling on pile foundations

An ARC Discovery Research Project

The effects of tunnel construction on the behaviour of existing pile foundations will be investigated. In particular, models will be developed to predict the influence of tunnel excavation on the bearing capacity, average settlement, differential settlement and tilt of pile groups and the loads and bending moments induced in the piles of the group and the pile cap. These models will allow rational assessment of the effects on buildings undermined by tunnels. This work is significant and timely because of the growing trend to place transport infrastructure underground in many cities of the world.