Study on Soil Seepage Force and Seepage-Induced Deformation

Abstract

Foundation pit engineering is a critical component of urban underground space development, and its safety is directly associated with the protection of buildings, surrounding infrastructure, and human life and property. Seepage forces and seepage-induced deformation are among the primary factors affecting the deformation and stability of deep foundation pits. This study investigates two representative engineering cases—the Jingguang Plaza foundation pit failure in Guangzhou and the Zuguo Plaza foundation pit failure in Zhuhai—to examine the influence of soil seepage behavior on foundation pit stability. By analyzing the geological and hydrogeological conditions, design schemes, and construction processes of these two projects, the critical role of soil permeability in the safety performance of foundation pit engineering is elucidated. The results indicate that soil permeability has a significant influence on groundwater control, the mechanical behavior of retaining structures, and the overall stability of the soil mass. Therefore, comprehensive seepage analysis and continuous deformation monitoring should be incorporated throughout the design and construction stages to effectively reduce the risk of seepage-induced failures in deep foundation pit engineering.