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Geological Society, London, Engineering Geology Special Publications; 1995; v. 10; p. 255-268;
DOI: 10.1144/GSL.ENG.1995.010.01.22
© 1995 Geological Society of London

Section 4: Tunnels

Role of engineering geology in NATM construction

J. P. Beveridge & W. J. Rankin

Mott MacDonald, 20/26 Wellesley Road, Croydon CR9 2UL, UK

The basic design philosophy of the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) of construction is implicitly reactive; it has been referred to as an observational method as monitoring is required to allow the optimization of support and to ensure that deformations are maintained within the definitions of safety. Benefits are obtained by optimizing the timing and nature of the primary ground support to suit the conditions exposed based on observations of performance during incremental construction. Engineering geologists have a pivotal role in investigating ground conditions and assessing the key design parameters in design modelling, monitoring and in observing the changing ground conditions during construction. Engineering geologists are also involved in decision-making processes for altering support types based on feedback from performance monitoring.

Four major projects are discussed where multiple heading and incremental excavation and sequential support techniques have been implemented, which required the skill of engineering geologists and rock mechanics engineers. There is a need for a systematic appraisal of ground conditions and for further documented case studies. There are many opportunities for engineering geologists in this interdisciplinary, interactive, observational design and construction process.