Effect of flat joints on the seismic behaviour of a segmental tunnel lining

The aim of this work is to investigate the influence of joints in the segmental lining on the seismic behaviour of shallow tunnels. To this aim, the paper illustrates the results of a set of 3D finite-element full dynamic analyses which put in evidence that the permanent relative rotation between adjacent segments can be a source of fragility for such structures. The study investigates also the not negligible effect of the pre-seismic conditions on the seismic behaviour of the tunnel lining.