Numerical Modeling of Tensile Crack Propagation in Concrete Dams

Recent experience has demonstrated that concrete dams designed with traditional procedures may be vulnerable to damage from excessive tensile stresses. Presence of these tensile stresses and the determination of risk level has necessitated the development of new mathematical models. Linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) is applicable to large structures such as dams because of their very limited fracture process zone. In this paper, a discrete crack approach is preferred because of the basic requirement of LEFM for a line crack and its suitability in modeling of the mixed‐mode or curvilinear crack paths likely to occur in dams. Parametric studies made on 100 and 200‐m high solid, gravity dams reveal that the most significant parameters affecting the tensile stresses and stress‐intensity factor (SIF) are $E_R/E_C$, $B/H$, and the type of singularity at the heel. Preformed cracks certainly relieve tension from the dam body as well as foundation rock, and their location can be ascertained successfully by LEFM.