ABSTRACT

Conducting hard rock excavation in urban areas using conventional methods (such as explosives or breakers) creates serious levels of excavation vibration and noise. Abrasive waterjets have recently been applied to overcome these problems in hard rock excavation in various fields. This study introduces alternative excavation methods using abrasive waterjet rock cutting technology, investigates various waterjet-cutting assisted rock excavation mechanisms, and provides experimental verifications. It is expected that the alternative excavation methods introduced here will result in low excavation vibration and permit environmentally friendly construction in urban areas.