Analysis of deformations and internal forces of diaphragm walls of a deep excavation by the open excavation method

This study applies the finite element method to the analysis of deformation and internal force of the diaphragm wall of the excavation pit of a high-rise building during the phased construction by the open excavation method. The simulation results show that the horizontal displacements along the wall depth increase in value with the construction stages, reaching the maximum value at the final construction stage. Both deformation of the diaphragm wall and internal force of the diaphragm wall are controlled within allowable limits. As a result, the impact of the excavation on the adjacent works is small. Parameter studies show that in general, settlement of the ground surface of adjacent structures increases with increasing excavation depth, decreasing distance from the excavation to the adjacent structure, greater depth of initial groundwater level, and higher surface load. The finite element method demonstrates greater capability in simulating deep excavation problems in a more diverse and realistic manner compared to the elastic beam on elastic foundation method.