A numerical case study on the long-term seismic assessment of reinforced concrete tunnels in corrosive environments

The paper investigates the long-term seismic behaviour of an underground reinforced concrete (RC) metro tunnel in Santiago, Chile, considering combined effects chloride-induced corrosion and cumulative, low-amplitude shaking on structure's performance. soil-tunnel response is evaluated with aid transient, nonlinear finite element analysis using a two-dimensional (2D) plane strain numerical model that adopts advanced models for simulation soil plasticity dynamic stiffness behaviour. deterioration are demonstrated terms time-dependent loss rebar area cover strength. study illustrates influence ageing repeated lining deformation, crack development, modal characteristics intact degrading systems. results indicate multiple events drive non-degrading RC beyond its elastic regime without significant structural consequences. A noticeable impact performance revealed, increasing number intensity earthquake events. Two different embedment depths comparatively assessed. analyses demonstrate larger co-seismic section convergence case deeper tunnel, yet less pronounced effect successive loading compared to shallow section, which evident cracks at end shaking.