Numerical Research on the Waterproof Failure Mechanism of the Sealing Gasket of an Underwater Shield Tunnel

Research on the waterproof failure mechanism was conducted using the software ABAQUS based on the project of waterproof design. The method used in the paper was compared with the predecessor method. The results showed that not only the predecessor method was workable but also the method in the paper was reasonable. The waterproof failure mechanism was also revealed. The research showed that the leakage easily occurred on the contact surface of the sealing gaskets during the condition of the joint opening. However, the leakage easily occurred on the contact surface of the sealing gasket and concrete during the condition of joint dislocation.