Abstract

Tunnels acting as drains involve groundwater-related problems such as deterioration of drainage systems or leakage through the linings. Generally initial and minor leakage problems can not be recognized by naked eyes. When the leakage over the linings is noticed, damages to structures and facilities have already occurred and could be considerable. Therefore it is vital to recognize initial leakage as early as possible and provide appropriate measures. Detection of leakage under operation requires installing piezometer. However, that may cause destruction of water proofing sheet which is generally not allowed. In this study electric resistivity method, one of the geophysical surveys, was adopted to detect possible leakage through tunnel linings. Physical lining models were made in the laboratory. The electric response was monitored for varying hydraulic conditions. It is shown that the method is very useful to detect initial leakage and monitor the malfunction of drainage system. Furthermore the method can also be used to check the quality of any repairing works of linings.