Analytical model for segmental tunnel lining with nonlinear joints

•Nonlinear joint model and tensionless Winkler foundation are introduced.•A versatile yet efficient solution is obtained for segmental lining.•Combination of state space method and Newton–Steffensen iterative procedure are employed.•A parametric study is presented to reveal the influence of controlling parameters. An analytical model was established through modeling the segmental lining by a curved beam, its interaction with the surrounding soils by a tensionless Winkler foundation, and the joints between segments by nonlinear rotational springs. The state space method was then combined with the Newton–Steffensen iterative procedure to formulate and solve the equations in which a tensionless foundation and nonlinear joints were engaged. Numerical examples were presented to illustrate the performance of the proposed new method through a comparison with existing methods from the literature. A parametric study was presented to reveal the influences of soil resistance coefficient and cross-sectional properties on the mechanical behavior of the lining. It has been shown that the new method is convenient and accurate to consider the interaction of lining with the surrounding soils and nonlinear behavior of joints, and thus provides an alternative approach to the design and analysis of this type of lining.