Hidden karst caves threaten tunnel stability, new assessment model reveals.
A study looked at how hidden caves in rocky tunnels can affect their stability. They used a method that considers different factors like rock quality, construction methods, and water levels. The most important factors for tunnel stability with hidden caves are rock quality, support measures, and water levels. Other factors like tunnel shape and stress are less important. The method was tested on a tunnel in China and matched the real situation well. This helps in planning how to make tunnels safer and avoid accidents.