Nonlinear Deformation Analyses of a Tailings Dam during a Mw5.7 Earthquake
Publication: Geo-Congress 2023
ABSTRACT
To evaluate the seismic response in high-profile tailings storage facilities (TSF), Nonlinear Deformation Analyses (NDAs) using advanced constitutive models are typically performed. To date, however, few of these advanced models have been validated against field conditions during significant earthquakes. NDAs were used to simulate a well-documented case history response of a 160 ft height TSF during a moment magnitude (Mw) 5.7 earthquake with recorded peak ground accelerations (PGA) of 0.12–0.35 g around the TSF, a recorded PGA of 0.25 g on the TSF. First, estimates of input ground motions at depth were obtained, along with validation of nonlinear procedures, through a suite of 1D equivalent linear and nonlinear deformation analyses using the GQ/H model in DEEPSOIL. Second, 2D fully coupled NDAs in FLAC using the PM4Sand and PM4Silt effective stress, critical state compatible, bounding surface plasticity models to evaluate the 2D system dynamic response at a critical TSF section. Fully coupled NDAs provided reasonable ranges of acceleration response, displacements, and pore water pressure generation in the tailings impoundment that were consistent with field observations. The results demonstrate the benefits of nonlinear models for evaluating the seismic performance of dams during earthquakes.
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Geo-Congress 2023
Pages: 70 - 85
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Published online: Mar 23, 2023
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