New developments of the boundary element method for underground constructions

In this paper, an innovative modeling approach is presented for the simulation of underground construction with the emphasis on tunneling. The boundary element method (BEM) is used, and the theoretical background is discussed first. This is followed by test examples, where the results are compared with results from available software, showing the efficiency and accuracy of the new method. Finally, a practical example considering nonlinear material, sequential excavation, and installation of ground support is presented.