Three-dimensional modelling of a diaphragm wall construction sequence

Abstract

A three-dimensional back-analysis of the construction sequence of three diaphragm wall panels was conducted using the finite difference method. The presence of two stress transfer mechanisms, namely, the horizontal arching and downward load transfer mechanisms during diaphragm wall installation, was confirmed. These two mechanisms act simultaneously and result in an average reduction of horizontal stress directly behind the wall above the toe but an increase of horizontal stress in neighboring soil beyond the wall in the longitudinal direction and below the toe of the wall. The calculated horizontal stress increase beneath the toe by the present analysis is noticeably smaller than the value computed by the pseudo three dimensional analysis.