ABSTRACT
Fibre Reinforced Shotcrete (FRS) linings are commonly designed on the basis of a working stress design format. A Limit State design approach has yet to be adopted for this type of structure, thus the benefits of this method of design have yet to be exploited. Designs for FRS linings are being executed with limited regard for variability in either load actions or resistance, and with an ad hoc consideration of the influence on overall reliability of ductility, redundancy, and the possibility of multiple failure modes. This paper will discuss a possible solution to this shortcoming by considering reliability aspects in relation to FRS lining resistance and design. Reliability analysis takes into account the issues listed above, as well as the severity of adverse outcomes, the probability of failure, the cost of failures, and the ability and willingness of society to pay for safety.
