Analytical Solutions for Evaluating the Efficacy of the Clay Shock Method in Shield Tunnels With Space Curves

ABSTRACT The Clay Shock method has been widely applied in shield tunneling engineering, attributed to its strong adaptability and prominent characteristic of rapid solidification for stratum reinforcement. As a supplementary measure to conventional grouting and filling techniques, it can further compensate for stratum losses. However, the impact of employing Clay Shock on the stratum to which the tunnel belongs and its efficacy in stratum control remain elusive. This paper presents a theoretical analysis method for evaluating the efficacy of the Clay Shock method in shield tunnels with space curves. The analytical method includes two shield cross‐section models. By applying the elasticity general solution, a comprehensive analytical solution is derived in this study to quantify the variations in the ground displacement field and additional stress field induced by shield tunnel boring after implementing the Clay Shock method. After conducting an analysis of the relevant parameters in accordance with the specific project, the method is validated through numerical methods and field data. It was found that the relationship between the grouting method on the outside of the pipe sheet and the mechanical disturbance of the formation is more complex. It is inaccurate to use only the simple formation loss rate to represent the formation deformation in the unit case. We propose a corresponding grouting design for the above problems. This study not only elucidates the specific impacts of the Clay Shock method on soil behavior, but also establishes a comprehensive theoretical foundation for its application principle in shield tunnelling.