Recently, we have introduced a new thixotropic mud used in large rectangular pipe jacking. When it is used in some complex tunneling sections, it can obviously support the stratum and inhibit settlement, and has a certain effect of lubrication and drag reduction. However, compared with traditional bentonite mud, its main performance parameters are obviously different, especially in thixotropy, gel strength, water resistance and other outstanding properties, which cannot be measured by traditional mud detection methods or instruments.

For example, for the viscosity of mud, Marsh funnel is usually used at the construction site. Its measuring principle is to express the viscosity by the time required for a certain amount of mud to flow freely from the fixed funnel under the action of gravity. However, the new thixotropic mud has a certain jelly shape due to the agglomeration structure between its internal molecules, which can not be completely discharged from the funnel only under the influence of gravity, so it is not suitable for Marsh funnel to measure its viscosity.

Therefore, in order to better identify and measure the actual effect of the new thixotropic mud, it is necessary for us to further study its main performance parameters and formulate a series of performance indicators for this special thixotropic mud to guide on-site preparation and use, so as to achieve the best engineering application effect.

We propose the following main performance parameters different from traditional mud to identify new thixotropic mud:

1: Density

2: Water loss rate

3: Yield stress

4: Bearing capacity (gel strength)

5: Lubrication antifriction

6: Force conduction

7: Water resistance

We believe that through the study of the above parameters, the new thixotropic mud can be selected and prepared more closely to the working conditions, and can play a more important guiding role in the future engineering data and results. Our company aims to expand the application of new thixotropic mud in traditional tunnel engineering, so as to maximize its effectiveness. Users are also welcome to consult or put forward your valuable suggestions to help us make efforts for the new construction method and technology of underground works.