Fibre-optics to detect seepage and internal erosion in embankment dams

摘要

Changes in seepage flow within embankment dams, which could signal internal erosion, can be detected at a very early stage using fibre optics to measure temperatures. This concept, developed in Sweden, is now recommended in Swedish Guidelines for dam monitoring, following successful applications at about 30 dams in the country. The concept, and some recent applications, are described here.