Dongyu Fang, Mark Yu, Zhang Qingfu
Papers # 2018 Las-Vegas
In the present paper we introduced how high modulus polypropylene helps an innovative design of utility tunnel up to 4000mm in diameter. High modulus polypropylene shows high modulus but still maintain reasonable flexibility so that tunnel and surrounding soil could form an integrated system, which means no force is applied on the wall of tunnel. Reasonable flexibility could thus enhance the safety of tunnel in addition to its good impact performance. At the same time, high modulus polypropylene utility tunnel is easy to be installed, no corrosion and easy to connect branch tunnels. However, to meet the requirements and functions of utility tunnel, other innovative design has to be integrated, including fire retardancy, inspection and internal structural design.