Impact of tidal level fluctuations on the structural behaviour of a segmental tunnel lining

- The Liefkenshoek tunnel moves up and down with the tides of River Scheldt.
- At high tide, the tunnel level is 10 mm lower compared to the situation at low tide.
- Monitoring results were compared with FE-calculations to identify the cause.
- The displacements are due to the elastic response of the impermeable Boom clay layer.
- The clay is not able to shield the lining from the fluctuating water pressures.