‘Infinite domain’ elements in finite element analysis of underground excavations

The Finite Element Method is frequently used to analyse problems involving an ‘infinite domain’. A typical problem is an underground excavation in prestressed infinite medium in either tunnelling or mining operations or a foundation in an infinite half space. This paper examines the implications of mesh truncation on the accuracy of the accuracy of the solution. At the same time, a more economical and accurate method of analysing these problems using special ‘infinite domain’ Finite Elements is presented. Copyright