Experimental investigation of the ultimate bearing capacity of deformed segmental tunnel linings strengthened by epoxy-bonded filament wound profiles

A new strengthening method employing epoxy-bonded filament wound profiles (FWPs) has been applied to shield tunnels subject to large deformation. Full-scale tests were conducted on the ultimate bearing capacity of linings strengthened by the new method. With consideration for secondary loading, the strengthening measures were applied when the lining deformation reached 120 mm (0.02D). The failure phenomena are described, and the main loading process results were obtained, including load-displacement curves, cracking, and joint openings. The failure mechanisms, the key performance points, and bearing capacities of the tested strengthened linings are discussed and analysed. In addition, a comparison was made between two FWP strengthening methods as well as with epoxy-bonded steel plate strengthening methods. The results show that the epoxy-bonded FWP method is effective and practical for strengthening segmental tunnel linings, which can improve both the ultimate bearing capacity and overall stiffness of the structures. The failure of the strengthened linings is primarily caused by bond failure between the FWPs and the concrete lining segments, indicating that the bonding capacity of the adhesive is of great importance when utilising the proposed strengthening method.