Extensive sensitivity analysis of the Kivenlahti metro center using DEM

The Kivenlahti metro center is a combined residential and commercial building complex designed on top of a metro station in Espoo, Finland. Rock mechanical modelling was carried out using 3DEC to ensure the integrity of the metro station. A detailed sensitivity analysis was conducted consisting of simulating the effects of reduced horizontal in-situ stress, increased loading and weaker rock mass. Whilst the base case scenario confirmed that the proposed design should not lead to critical deformations within the metro station, the results of the sensitivity analysis indicated vulnerable locations if the loading is increased from the current design. An in-situ stress significantly lower than expected could lead to critical deformations within the metro station. Whilst the sensitivity analysis was conducted using extreme values, it successfully demonstrated areas for concern and thus aided in designing measures for mitigating the risks for the metro station