Stress transfer and deformation mechanisms around a diaphragm wall panel

Abstract

Practicing engineers and researchers are becoming aware of the importance of ground movements and stress changes int the ground that may occur during the construction of a diaphragm wall type of retaining walls. In this paper, the construction sequence of a typical diaphragm wall panel in stiff clay is fully simulated using a three-dimensional finite difference program. Computed results are compared with some reported results of centrifuge model tests and relevant case histories. It has been found that the influence zone due to the diaphragm wall panel installation falls within a normal distance of approximately one panel depth, D, from the face of the panel, 1/3D below from the toe and 1/3L from the edge and along the length of the panel (L). Significant horizontal stress reduction behind the center of the panel is attributed to both the downward load transfer and the horizontal arching mechanisms. A settlement bowl appears behind the panel. The maximum settlement occurs at a distance of about 0.2D behind the wall and settlements beyond the influence zone are found to be insignificant. | Practicing engineers and researchers are becoming aware of the importance of ground movements and stress changes in the ground that may occur during the construction of a diaphragm wall type of retaining walls. In this paper, the construction sequence of a typical diaphragm wall panel in stiff clay is fully simulated using a three-dimensional finite difference program. Computed results are compared with some reported results of centrifuge model tests and relevant case histories. It has been found that the influence zone due to the diaphragm wall panel installation falls within a normal distance of approximately one panel depth, D, from the face of the panel, 1/3D below from the toe and 1/3L from the edge and along the length of the panel (L). Significant horizontal stress reduction behind the center of the panel is attributed to both the downward load transfer and the horizontal arching mechanisms. A settlement bowl appears behind the panel. The maximum settlement occurs at a distance of about 0.2/D behind the wall and settlements beyond the influence zone are found to be insignificant.