TBM and Lining Essential Interfaces Student: Nguyen Duc Toan Master in Tunnelling and Tunnel Boring Machines Evaluation by Dr. Harald Wagner Company Tutor The Master Thesis of Mr. Toan is representing a comprehensive study on essential interfaces between tunnel boring machines and tunnel lining. It is of both practical and theoretical value as the basis of the thesis are ongoing projects using state-ofthe-art technologies. There is wide use of projects in the Alpine regions both in hard rock and soft ground. The thesis describes the constraints of planning design and construction of a new railway line in Austria, focusing on TBM tunnelling. In further giving room to ground reinforcement technologies, the thesis highlights on important scientific aspects of Turin Metro and its use of tunnel boring machines. Both of these case studies are further used to analyse and highlight on the interface between TBM and lining. After explanations on lining types are given lining design procedure is explained and contractual and physical views on the concept of interface are given. Following this basic principles in practice the thesis is elaborating a parametric study using different models in the numerical analysis. Subsequently the thesis contains important aspects of lining analysis and ground settlement. For settlement calculation state-of-the-art findings are used including modelling of respective cross sections with finite element calculation on the basis of Plaxis. In addition it includes important aspects of phase stability calculations and settlement calculations. In the final conclusions and recommendations for future studies the author of the thesis shows his in-depth and comprehensive understanding of his achievements gained in this Master Course. The undersigned personally believes that this Thesis is of interest to the geotechnical and tunnelling industry. It is believed to be worth for an international award, subject to the decision of COREP. It is strongly recommended for qualification with best degree.

Dr. Harald Wagner