Generic knowledge

Information and literature that is overarching for underground construction or does not directly belong in one of the other subtopics. Examples include handbooks, knowledge programmes, guidelines, studies and background information.

Manual on Tunnelling (2019)

This handbook is a reference work for designers and builders of tunnels. It provides insight into all aspects involved in design and construction, as well as existing potential solutions. The book is limited to cut-and-cover and immersion tunnels. The handbook, created by CDE participants, can be read online for free.

Deepening the Beneluxtunnel (2015)

To keep Rotterdam's city ports accessible, the Beneluxtunnel should be deepened. Tomas Weeda of TU Delft's feasibility study shows that it is technically feasible and economically attractive to deepen tunnels at their current location. In addition to the master thesis, CDE published an extensive article on the study.

Tunnel Safety Support Centre (2015)

The Tunnel Safety Support Centre is an office within Rijkswaterstaat where all knowledge on tunnel safety is bundled. The Support Centre for Tunnel Safety conducts research, draws up frameworks and guidelines, develops instruments and advises on underground structures and the associated safety measures.

TU Delft research (2009 - 2015)

• Feasibility study of lowering the Benelux tunnel (2015)
• 3D subsurface modelling and geotechnical risk analysis for the tunnel construction of the A2 project Maastricht (2009)

North-South Line knowledge website (2015)

On the North South Line knowledge website, the knowledge gained from the construction process is shared and discussed online. It is a website for and by experts, with articles on facts and figures, research and practical cases.

Schreuders study award (2014)

On 30 October 2014, the 2014 Schreuders Study Prize was awarded at the COB congress. The prize is intended for graduation studies in the field of underground construction. A scientific publication of each nominated research was made available.

• Subsurface construction from an energy point of view
• Tunnel visions on sustainability
• Artificial ground freezing in densely built up areas
• A stage in the city, space for display
• Starting a large diameter TBM from surface

Tunnel regulations: situation since the new WARVW (2014)

Movares has collected all laws and regulations on tunnels since the new WARVW.

Interaction foundation techniques Spoorzone Delft (2014)

In the Delft railway tunnel, the interaction between different foundation techniques played an important role. Close to existing pile foundations of a railway viaduct, for instance, new diaphragm walls were built and grout anchors were installed between previously built diaphragm and sheet pile walls. Extensive field research was carried out to map the mutual influence.

Modelling of settlement induced building damage (2013)

Underground construction projects can lead to settlement induced damage to masonry buildings. To predict this damage, a procedure is currently used that sometimes underestimates settlement effects. For her PhD at TU Delft, Giorgia Giardina developed a better system, based on both experimental and numerical modelling.

Delft Cluster: Innovative shallow construction (2009)

Developed innovative techniques to also use the Holocene topsoil in an intensive and cost-effective way for underground functions, such as underground transport. Especially for inner-city areas, these techniques offer a range of possibilities. The Delft Cluster research programme (2003-2011) was set up to promote the development and dissemination of knowledge for the ground, road and hydraulic engineering sector.

COB - Introduction to Underground Construction (2002)

This book aims to increase understanding of the enormous complexity of underground construction and underground space use. The interaction between technical and non-technical aspects occupies an important place. The book focuses primarily on the Dutch situation and consists of four 'parts'.

1. the context and perspective of underground construction and underground use of space
2. introduction to engineering
3. specific technical aspects and construction methods
4. a case study: the Underground Logistics System (OLS) Aalsmeer, Schiphol, Hoofddorp.

Download the book for free from the COB website or order a printed version.

Geo-domes (2002)

In May 2002, the Geokoepel project won the national OSCUR prize for the most promising vision of future space use in the Netherlands. A team of 25 young professionals, coming from business and government organisations, worked on this vision for almost a year.

Roads, trains, subways, car parks: more and more traditional underground functions occupy the top 50 m of the subsurface. Precisely these ground layers are also essential for water management and the foundations of tall buildings. There is thus an urgent need for new space sources. Large, vault-shaped, almost 'cathedral-like' spaces are therefore being excavated in the underlying soil layers: the so-called 'Geokoepels'.

More information on this project can be found on Architectenweb. In an accompanying booklet, the Geocome team outlined the possibilities of the Geocome using four concrete scenarios. According to the team, "in 25 to 50 years, it may be a real option to use the Geocome to create a new dimension for the layout of our country."

COB - Handbooks on Underground Construction (1997 and 1999)

Much knowledge has been collected through the CDE in the handbooks Underground Construction Part 1 and Part 2. Part 1 deals with underground construction in a broad perspective. Part 2 deals with underground constructions created by building in construction pits and trenches. You can order the books by contacting the CDE secretariat.

Centre for Underground Construction (CDE)

The Centre for Underground Construction coordinates developments in the field of underground construction in the Netherlands. On the CDE website, you can find a lot of information on a wide range of projects and all disciplines covered by underground construction.

COB - Knowledge database

COB manages an extensive database of some 1400 reports on underground construction. In addition, COB magazines and online background articles can be found in the publication archive.