ABSTRACT
Instability and even collapse of slurry trench may occur during the excavation of diaphragm wall. However, there are few analyses on the stability of slurry trench concerning slurry infiltration. Based on the particle transportation mechanism of convection-dispersion-deposition in porous media, a model for slurry infiltration is established to consider the coupling relationship among the degree of particle transportation, fluid seepage and soil deformation. The model parameters are calibrated by comparing with the existing tests. Plane-strain models are further established to simulate the slurry infiltration after the trench excavation. The formation of mud cake and trench stability are explored based on variation in pore water pressure. The influences of slurry concentration on the trench stability under slurry infiltration are further analyzed by strength reduction technique. It reveals that a proper increase in slurry concentration is beneficial for the trench stability. Finally, the method is applied to a practical engineering for further verification.
