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  The use of GFRP reinforcing elements and the mechanized excavation method

  This article explains the use of GFRP elements in the field of tunnels construction with TBM tunnelling and in particular, the execution of lining with precast segments. In this context, the use of GFRP bars and nets could replace totally the traditional steel reinforcement or constitute strengthening components to overlap steel armature. The use of precast reinforced segments with fiberglass bars could be useful in highly aggressive environments, such as in marine tunnels, or as electric discontinuity elements in railway tunnels, where the entire GFRP lining ring represents an efficient “dielectric joint” towards stray currents. Instead, the use of GFRP nets is quite appropriate in protecting the edges of the segments, considering the possibility of reducing the concrete cover usually provided for metal reinforcements. Finally, the implementation of fiberglass reinforcement is favourable in circumstances where partial demolition of lining structures are to be considered, as for instance for construction of niches and by-pass, or in accomplishment of temporary works, such as launching ramp for TBM to be then removed or metal pushing frameworks at the start-up of the excavation. After describing the technical specifications of the materials used, the article illustrates the project practices and the calculation methodologies applied, as well as the evidences derived from experimental tests.GFRP, reinforcing elements, mechanized excavation method, segment, soft-eye.

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