Application research on groundwater-level rise and diversion measures in subway station operation period via similar physical models

Blocking seepage channels during underground engineering construction can alter groundwater levels and trigger geological environmental deterioration, which is unfavorable for sustainable development. This study investigates groundwater-level rise induced by subway station excavation and evaluates diversion measures for controlling such changes. A physical model test system was used to simulate the excavation process of a subway station structure. Based on similarity theory, clay-like, sand-like, and rock-like strata materials were prepared using sand, clay, blanc fixe, iron powder, and other raw materials. Six test conditions were simulated under four hydraulic gradients. Water-level variations were monitored, and diversion measures were proposed and experimentally tested. The results show that the largest groundwater-level rise occurred at monitoring points located on the upstream side of the structure. The diversion measures adopted in the study had a significant influence on groundwater-level rise and decline. Under the experimental conditions, the measured water-level variation reached 0.54 m. The findings indicate that underground structures can significantly affect groundwater seepage and local water-level distribution, especially upstream of the excavation area. Proper diversion measures can help regulate groundwater-level changes and reduce the adverse environmental effects caused by seepage-channel obstruction during underground construction.