Stress and seepage analyses for a gravity dam on a jointed granitic rock mass

摘要

This paper describes the numerical modeling studies carried out with the Distinct Element Method and UDEC, in order to assess the stability conditions of a concrete gravity dam founded on a jointed granitic rock mass. For a representative cross section of the dam and two-dimensional plane strain conditions, the rock mass foundation was modeled as a discontinuum and coupled stress-flow analyses were performed. The aim of the study was to investigate the seepage conditions through the rock mass foundation. The results obtained for the flow patterns and pressure distributions under the dam were compared directly with the assumptions, which are used in current practice for static analysis of gravity dams. Finally, the assessment of stability conditions was compared with the results obtained with the Finite Difference Method and FLAC.