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Bridging the gap between engineering properties and grouting reinforcement mechanisms for loess in eastern China: taking Jinan loess as an example

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Abstract

Currently, there is a strong need for urban tunnels to relieve traffic. Hence, the possibility of tunnels crossing complicated geological conditions is also increasing. The study proposes a new grouting reinforcement countermeasure for loess stratum by means of data investigation, experimental study, and field application. The Yuhan Road underground tunnel is a typical shallow buried loess tunnel with small spacing, with large areas of collapse and leakage accidents during excavation. To reinforce the stratum by grouting, geological research on Jinan loess is performed and a close association of Jinan loess genesis and water is observed. A significant distinguish is observed between Jinan loess and northwestern Chinese loess in terms of origin, structure, particle size composition, and collapsibility. By collecting and comparing the engineering properties of loess, it is found that the regional characteristic of loess is distinct and the engineering particularity, especially severe water sensitivity, of Jinan loess is thus clarified. Because of the caused inapplicability of existing grouting theories and countermeasures, the grouting reinforcement mechanism of Jinan loess is thus studied to clarify the comprehensive impact of water during grouting process. A dynamic grouting control theory is proposed to determine the optimal water-cement ratio (W/C) based on specific stratum water content. On this basis, a multibag hierarchical and sequential grouting countermeasure is proposed to treat a collapsed section on this basis. By means of bags and compacted soil, barriers are formed at the boundaries of the treatment area to make the slurry reinforce the target area on purpose. This countermeasure achieves considerable success in controlling the deformation of the surface and vault, ensuring the completion of construction.

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Funding

Current investigations of Jinan loess are supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (U1706223) and the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province (ZR2017MEE070).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Geotechnical and Structural Engineering Research Center, Shandong University, Jinan, 250061, China

    Qiyi An, Qingsong Zhang, Xiao Zhang & Jiaqi Zhang

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  1. Qiyi An
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Correspondence to Jiaqi Zhang.

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An, Q., Zhang, Q., Zhang, X. et al. Bridging the gap between engineering properties and grouting reinforcement mechanisms for loess in eastern China: taking Jinan loess as an example. Bull Eng Geol Environ 80, 4125–4141 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-021-02201-w

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