2000 AEG Student professional paper: Graduate division - Ground conditioning for earth pressure balance machine tunneling

The objective of this paper is to provide insight to the application of sta te-of-the-art ground modification technology for Earth Pressure Balance (EP B) soft ground tunneling. The paper reflects data from a wide array of sour ces including conference proceedings, trade journal articles, manufacturer publications, books and personal experience. The paper first introduces the concept of soft ground tunneling and then discusses the Earth Pressure Bal ance Tunnel Boring Machine method. The bulk of the paper is spent discussin g ground-conditioning agents, particularly foam. Use of, quantities, theory behind them, environmental impact, lab testing, and effects of foams are d escribed. The paper concludes with a brief case study of the Sheppard Subwa y Twin Tunnels in Toronto, Canada. Attached to the paper is a comprehensive literature search on EPB tunneling, particularly with regards to foam use.