A new multi-parallel condition assessment scale for estimating tunnel-induced damage

Abstract

Traditional means to predict tunnel-induced damage for large groups of potentially affected above ground structures has generally focused on creating a settlement trough and estimating subsequent building response limited by rudimentary aspects of each building’s geometry, structural system, foundation type, and soil bearing capacity. Historically, the procedure is done without consideration for a building’s condition. In this paper, a supplementary step is proposed – one focused on the building’s current state of repair. The presented system employs at its core a widely adopted crack evaluation scale. The main focus is application to unreinforced masonry buildings as they are simultaneously, disproportionately present in urban areas and vulnerable to tunnel movements. The proposed system is herein outlined and applied to a future tunnelling project in Ireland.