Long term behavior finite element analysis of a dam with in situ measurements of the viscoplastic properties of its foundations

摘要

This paper first deals with the validation of a Soft Soil Creep Model (SSCM)" applied to model the behavior of a dam. The well-known logarithmic creep law for secondary compression is transformed in to a differential form in order to include transient loading conditions. This 1-D creep model for oedometer-type strain conditions is then extended towards general 3-D states of stress and strain by incorporating concepts of Modified Cam-Clay and viscoplasticity. The behavior of earth works on soft soils is the second aim of this paper. Considering the study led by EDF (Electricity of France), related to the settlement of the Flumet dam (south east of France), and the in situ Diflupress tests at the Flumet site, it can be seen that phenomena such as secondary compression, are quite well represented by the model. Comparing the theoretical results with the experimental settlements measured, it appears that the SSCM is successfully validated, and therefore suitable for predictive computations.