Seismic Deformation Analysis of Embankment Dams Using Simplified Total-Stress Approach
Publication: Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering
Volume 145, Issue 10
Abstract
In earthquake-prone areas, risk analyses of seismic potential failure modes for embankment dams are often required. In order to evaluate these potential failure modes, seismically induced deformations are needed. The use of numerical modeling to determine embankment dam deformations has gained wide attention in practice, especially when involving liquefiable soils. This study presents a validation assessment of a finite-difference computer program using embankment dam prototypes tested in dynamic centrifuges. Similar to the total-stress analysis methodology, undrained shear strengths were used to characterize seismic behaviors of the embankment soils. As a simplified approach, uncoupled modeling with a primitive constitutive model was adopted. Quasi-steady-state strengths were determined from the laboratory stress-strain curves for the dilative soils tested in the centrifuges. Calculated results were found to be comparable with the measured data from the centrifuge experiments, which provides some level of confidence in the predictive capability of the finite-difference computer program. In particular, a good correlation was observed between the ratio of the seismic input motions and the calculated settlements.
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Acknowledgments
Support and guidance for the work described herein from Robert Pike, the Deputy Chief of Dam Safety Office, and Dennis Hanneman, coordinator of the Dam Performance during Seismic Loading Research Program, of the US Bureau of Reclamation are gratefully acknowledged. The digital data of VELACS Soil Data Report provided by Professor Kanthasamy Muraleetharan of the University of Oklahoma is also greatly appreciated.
Disclaimer
The contents of this paper reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect policy of the US Department of the Interior. This paper does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. The United States Government does not endorse products or manufactures. Trade or manufacturer’s names appear herein only because they are considered essential to the objective of this document.
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©2019 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Received: Dec 28, 2017
Accepted: May 1, 2019
Published online: Jul 29, 2019
Published in print: Oct 1, 2019
Discussion open until: Dec 29, 2019
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