Numerical anaysis and validation of rock bolts installation for structural stabilizing of Tutankhamen’s Tomb

This study presents a numerical investigation into the application of rock bolt reinforcement for the structural stabilization of Tutankhamen’s Tomb (KV62), a globally significant cultural heritage site. The study leverages PLAXIS 3D with the Mohr-Coulomb model to quantify stress reduction, displacement changes, and stability improvements post-rock bolt installation, and it proposes two practical support system design options based on the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) system. The results indicated a notable reduction in stress concentrations and improved stability, particularly in the ceiling and crown zones, with effective mean stresses decreasing from −695.84 kN/m² to −317.32 kN/m² (a reduction of 54.4%), and vertical stresses from −1600 kN/m² to −740.06 kN/m² (a reduction of 53.7%). Significant improvements in shear stress were also observed, with a drop from 1.0 to 0.09. Overall, the research addresses a critical conservation challenge for ancient underground heritage structures and provides evidence-based engineering insights for their long-term preservation.