Crystallization blockage damage in tunnel drainage system and suggestions for its prevention and control

Abstract

The functionality of drainage systems in highway tunnels is of paramount importance for the structural safety and efficient operation of the tunnels. This study investigated the operation, management and maintenance of tunnels on Renxin Expressway and Yinghuai Expressway in Guangdong Province, and conducts tunnel disease statistics and analyzes the types of tunnel diseases under different geological bodies, and proposes prevention and control suggestions. The results showed that (1) water leakage at the linings and construction joints accounted for over 90% of all pathological conditions, (2) water samples collected from the sites had an alkaline pH level greater than 7, with 74% of samples exceeding 9, and (3) the dominant components of the crystalline substances collected from the sites were calcite and aragonite (CaCO3 crystals), accounting for 97% of the total. Based on the field investigation and data analysis, this paper presents many effective measures to control crystalline blockages for tunnels’ drainage systems.

Keywords

• Underground water
• Preventative measures
• Drainage systems
• Tunnel engineering
• Calcium carbonate crystalline formations