State-of-the-Art and Future Trends in Deformation Response of Tunnel Intersection Construction Zones

Abstract

The construction of urban underground space develops very fast, and tunnel intersection construction has become a common practice, attracting significant attention due to the associated deformation responses and risk control challenges. To systematically review the research landscape and cutting-edge developments in this field, this study conducts a comprehensive analysis based on 744 publications (1994–2025) from the Web of Science Core Collection using bibliometric methods. Firstly, through visual analyses of annual publication trends, journal distributions, and keyword co-occurrences, the study reveals the evolution and research hotspots of the past three decades. Subsequently, three core dimensions are explored in depth: deformation mechanisms and patterns, deformation analysis methods for ground and existing structures, and ground control and reinforcement techniques. The review highlights the following: (1) Research focus has shifted from single construction scenarios to the complex interactions among multiple tunnels, yet the cumulative deformation effects caused by repeated soil disturbances during sequential excavation remain inadequately understood. (2) The bidirectional coupling between existing tunnels and surrounding soil has become a major research focus and challenge. Particularly in the presence of high-stiffness structures, the “free-field” assumption in the commonly used two-stage method is being questioned, necessitating the development of more refined computational theories. (3) Optimization of construction schemes under complex conditions is key to disturbance control, but current research still lacks systematic multi-objective optimization approaches. In addition, this paper analyzes the current research status and future directions to enhance the deformation perception capability and control technologies in tunnel construction influence zones, thereby further improving the safety and intelligence level of tunnel construction.