Analysis of the seismic performance of a large underground station structure in complex stratum considering the influence of axial force

Abstract

The large underground structure in saturated stratum is vulnerable to float during an earthquake. This results in a plethora of problems, such as uneven settlement, large internal force and structure damage. In this study, the seismic behavior of a three-story, two-span subway station in complex saturated stratum was investigated through water-soil fully coupled 3D finite element method. In the analysis, the nonlinear soil behavior was described by a cyclic mobility model and the structure was calculated using a nonlinear constitutive model which can consider the influence of axial force on its bending moment. Joints elements were used to model the contact surface between soil and structure. The development of the soil displacement and internal force of the station structure at different times during a huge earthquake was examined. The bearing capacity of the station structure members was analyzed. The results indicated that the vertical displacement was spatially distributed. The larger additional seismic stresses appeared in the bottom slab and side wall. Failed elements were observed in both the walls and slabs, and the walls were more easily damaged than the slab. The results provide useful reference for the large underground structure seismic design in the construction of urban underground space.