Prediction for Water Inrush Disaster Source and CFD-Based Design of Evacuation Routes in Karst Tunnel

Abstract

Tunnel construction in mountain areas, especially in karst regions, is challenging due to complex hydrogeological conditions in such regions, such as water inrush disaster induced by water-bearing structures that may jeopardize tunnel construction safety. To identify potential water inrush sources, this study first analyzed regional hydrogeological conditions of the Yuelongmen tunnel that cross under the river. Then, the tunnel-induced polarization method was employed to probe three-dimensional (3D) spatial location and distribution of water-rich areas. Based on detection results, numerical simulation was carried out to study the corresponding velocity and pressure for each probing line set in the numerical model, and flow characteristics after water inrush were summarized. Finally, optimized evacuation routes were designed to minimize the potential damage caused by the water inrush. Research results may provide critical implications for water inrush analysis and reduce casualties during tunneling in karst regions in China.