1. This study presents a method to compute the limit face pressures in layered ground with confined aquifers.
2. Seepage analyses based on the finite element method (FEM) are conducted to investigate the underground water flow patterns due to shield tunneling.
3. A new analytical flow model is proposed based on the hydraulic fields obtained from the seepage analyses, and an approach to evaluate necessary face pressures is constructed by combining the flow model and a limit equilibrium model (LEM).
The article “Tunnel Face Stability Model for Layered Ground with Confined Aquifers” provides a comprehensive overview of how shield tunnels can be affected by high fluid pressures in confined aquifers. The authors present a method to compute the limit face pressures in such conditions, as well as an analytical flow model and an approach to evaluate necessary face pressures that combines this flow model with a limit equilibrium model (LEM). The article is well-structured and clearly written, making it easy to follow and understand.
The article is reliable in terms of its content, as it provides detailed information about the research methods used, including finite element analysis and centrifuge model tests. Furthermore, it includes references to previous studies that support its claims. However, there are some potential biases that should be noted. For example, while the authors discuss possible risks associated with shield tunneling in confined aquifers, they do not explore any counterarguments or alternative solutions that could be used instead of their proposed method. Additionally, while they provide evidence for their claims, they do not present any data or results from their own experiments or simulations that would further support their conclusions.
In conclusion, this article provides a thorough overview of how shield tunnels can be affected by high fluid pressures in confined aquifers and presents a reliable method for computing necessary face pressures in such conditions. However, it does not explore any counterarguments or alternative solutions nor does it provide any data or results from its own experiments or simulations that would further support its conclusions.