Significance of nonlinear permeability in the coupled-numerical analysis of tunnelling

The inflow rate is of interest in the design of underground structures such as tunnels and buried pipes below the groundwater table. Soil permeability governing the inflow rate significantly affects the hydro-geological behavior of soils but is difficult to estimate due to its wide range of distribution, nonlinearity and anisotropy. Volume changes induced by stress can cause nonlinear stress-strain behavior, resulting in corresponding permeability changes. In this paper, the nonlinearity and anisotropy of permeability are investigated by conducting Rowe cell tests, and a nonlinear permeability model considering anisotropy was proposed. Model modification and parameter evaluation for field application were also addressed. Significance of nonlinear permeability was illustrated by carrying out numerical analysis of a tunnel. It is highlighted that the effect of nonlinear permeability is significant in soils of which volume change is considerable, and particularly appears in the short-term flow behavior.