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Cementitious Composites with High Compaction Potential: Modeling and Calibration.
Giao Vu1, Tagir Iskhakov1, Jithender J Timothy1
1Institute for Structural Mechanics, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitaetsstrasse 150, 44801 Bochum, Germany.
Novel cementitious composites using expanded polystyrene (EPS) offer improved tunnel lining protection against large ground deformations. A validated Discrete Element Method (DEM) model aids in predicting the performance of these high-compaction materials.
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Area of Science:
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Computational Mechanics
Background:
- Tunnel construction faces challenges in difficult geological conditions, necessitating enhanced segmental lining protection.
- Compressible grouts in the annular gap improve damage tolerance of tunnel linings against unexpected large deformations.
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS) lightweight composites are emerging as promising materials for this application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel compressible cementitious EPS-based composite materials with high compaction potential.
- To investigate the mechanical behavior of these composites under compressive loads with and without lateral confinement.
- To calibrate and validate a Discrete Element Method (DEM) computational model for predicting the behavior of these materials.
Main Methods:
- Development of novel compressible cementitious EPS-based composite materials.
- Experimental testing of composite specimens under various compressive load conditions.
- Calibration and validation of a Discrete Element Method (DEM) model using experimental data and phenomenological submodels.
Main Results:
- The developed EPS-based composites exhibit high compaction potential, enabling customized behavior for specific geological conditions.
- The calibrated DEM model accurately predicts the behavior of these composite materials.
- Model prognoses show excellent agreement with experimental measurements not used in the calibration process.
Conclusions:
- Novel compressible cementitious EPS-based composites are effective for enhancing tunnel lining resilience in challenging ground conditions.
- The validated DEM model provides a reliable tool for the prognosis and design of such advanced composite materials.
- This approach facilitates the development of tailored solutions for tunnel construction in squeezing ground and other difficult geological settings.

