Three-dimensional seismic response analysis of a concrete-faced rockfill dam on overburden layers

Abstract

Reasonable seismic response analysis of a high rockfill dam is of great engineering significance in guiding its design and ensuring its seismic safety during operation, especially of a concrete-faced rockfill dam (CFRD) on overburden layers. The three-dimensional seismic behavior of the Miaojiaba CFRD is simulated and analyzed by the finite element method (FEM). The results indicate that: 1) the amplification coefficient along the dam axis gradually increases with the altitude, and reaches maximum at the dam crest; 2) the vertical residual deformation mainly exhibits downwards and reaches maximum near the dam crest; 3) the earthquake significantly aggravates the deformation of peripheral joints; 4) the impounding condition and overburden characteristics have great effects on the dam’s seismic response.

Keywords

concrete-faced rockfill dam (CFRD) / overburden layer / dynamic analysis / finite element method (FEM)