ABSTRACT
The monitored settlement data can reflect the safety condition of tunnel construction. The monitored settlement data, the experimental results and theoretical calculation outcomes of settlements of the immersed tunnel of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) were compared and the contributing factors to the settlement and the underlying mechanism of settlement were discussed. The immediate settlement is the major form of settlement of the HZMB tunnel. The immediate settlement accounts for about 70%–80% of the total settlement of the tunnel, which is mainly caused by the gravel cushion and foundation soil. The settlement is 7.2–11.2 mm about the natural foundation section, and that of clay section is larger than sandy soil section. The immediate settlement can be calculated by the formula specified in the Foundation Code of Japan. The results are expected to provide a basis for the design and construction of immersed tunnels in the future.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).