Benchmark analysis of segment joint model for segmented tunnel lining in ultimate limit state

To investigate the behavior of the segment joint of the segmented tunnel lining in the ultimate limit state, a plane stress model，in conjugation with the brittle cracking constitutive equation of concrete and the joint element (Goodman element), is presented based on the comparison among the elastic beam-spring model, elastic beam-joint element model, solid element-contact surface model and so on. Taking the experimental results of full-scale tests on segment joint as the benchmark, the analysis methods are verified in terms of the load capacity and the bending moment-rotation relation. The moment-rotation curve from the FEM simulation shows a good agreement compared to the experimental data. From the benchmark analysis, it can be concluded that the nonlinear behavior of segment joint is captured exactly by the plane stress model, and that it can be utilized to scan and trace the initiation and development of crack and crush of the segment joint.