Title: Understanding the complexities of tunnel-pile-soil interaction: a comprehensive investigation of vibratory effects and seismic dynamics

Authors: Musabur Rehman; Syed Mohd Abbas; Altaf Usmani

Addresses: Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, 110025, India ' Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Jamia Millia Islamia (A Central University), New Delhi, 110025, India ' Engineers India Limited, R&D Complex, National Highway 8, Chander Nagar, Sector 16, Gurugram, Hary, India

Abstract: Excavating tunnels can significantly affect pre-existing structures like raft or pile foundations and the surrounding substructures. Additionally, tunnelling combined with seismic waves can lead to severe consequences. This study aims to thoroughly examine the interactions among tunnels, piles, and adjacent soil (TPS), focusing on vibrational effects and mathematical modelling. A framework is proposed to predict pile behaviour before tunnelling and validate results from computational simulations. Using PLAXIS3D finite element software, the study investigates the complexities of tunnel-pile-soil interaction (TPSI) during seismic events, particularly evaluating the impact of tunnel excavation and seismic activity on 2 × 2 pile configurations. The disturbance of piles is found to be directly proportional to the tunnel's geometry and position and inversely proportional to pile diameter and modulus. The results highlight the influence of varying parameters on deformation characteristics and bending moments, providing insights into the relationships between different variables.

Keywords: tunnelling; seismic waves; structural interaction; pile foundations; PLAXIS3D software; deformation patterns.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCIS.2026.153814

International Journal of Critical Infrastructures, 2026 Vol.22 No.2, pp.182 - 200

Received: 02 Apr 2024
Accepted: 23 Jul 2024
Published online: 27 May 2026 *

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