With the expansion of highway engineering into mountainous regions, tunnels crossing fault fracture zones have become increasingly common. Such geological conditions are highly complex and prone to hazards such as collapse and water or mud inrush, posing serious threats to construction safety, quality, and progress. Based on engineering practice, this paper systematically analyzes the geological characteristics of fault fracture zones and their impacts on tunnel construction. It elaborates on pre-construction preparations, including geological investigation, scheme design, material and equipment preparation, and personnel training. Emphasis is placed on key technologies such as excavation, support, grouting reinforcement, and drainage. Monitoring contents, methods, and data processing essentials are reviewed, and targeted control measures are proposed. Key experiences are summarized to provide guidance for highway tunnel construction through fault fracture zones, ensuring construction and quality safety and supporting the development of highway engineering.
Zhang Hai-Feng (Wed,) studied this question.