ABSTRACT

In recent years, usage of fibers as reinforcement in replacement of conventional rebar in precast concrete tunnel segments has gained significant interest. In seismic regions, the structural performance of underground tunnels under earthquake events is of great concern for tunnel designers. This paper investigates the effects of incorporating Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC), as the tunnel’s lining material, on its seismic vulnerability, compared to that of conventionally reinforced concrete. Results show that steel fibers enhance the seismic performance of concrete linings over conventional steel rebar, implying a technically preferable option for segmental lining tunnels in seismic zones.