Shallow compressed air tunnelling – Field measurements and a laboratory test
Abstract
In shallow tunnelling below groundwater table compressed air can be used for preventing water inflow into the tunnel during construction. During tunnelling with a shotcrete support airloss takes place which has to be compensated permanently to maintain the required air pressure. The air leaks thereby through the unsupported tunnel face and the shrinkage cracks of the shotcrete support. The excess air pressure in the tunnel and the uplifting forces due to air flow in the ground counteract the ground deformations due to excavation and so exert a positive effect on the stability of the tunnel itself and on the surface settlement.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Geotechnical Engineering and Analysis
Tunneling and Rock Mechanics
Geotechnical Engineering and Underground Structures
Publication details
- Journal / source
- CRC Press eBooks
- Pages
- 111–116
- Publication date
- 24 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter