Abstract:  This paper first presents the concept of m value for various soils and its impact on the results of the deep excavation supporting structures. Currently, four different methods of determining the m value are also introduced. This paper also presents the regional geological and geographical conditions with a comparison of differences between east and west sides of Zhengzhou City. The geotechnical parameters of soil and rock material in the No. 5 Line of Zhengzhou Metro are statically analyzed and different method for determining the m values are evaluated.

Key words: metro lines, horizontal reaction coefficients of subgrade soils, m-values