SEISMIC SAFETY EVALUATION OF CONCRETE ARCH DAMS AGAINST EARTHQUAKE-INDUCED FAILURE OF JOINTED ROCK FOUNDATIONS

Abstract

 In this study, non-linear dynamic analyses for earthquake-induced failure of jointed rock foundations are conducted evaluating the seismic safety of concrete arch dams. Damage indices are proposed for representing sliding and opening behavior of rock joints. By varying specified peak ground acceleration (PGA) in dynamic analyses, critical acceleration can be obtained, when damage indices dramatically increase and jointed rock foundations fail. Dynamic analyses are conducted considering rock joints with various orientations and strength properties. Seismic safety is evaluated for jointed rock foundations of concrete arch dams, comparing critical acceleration to PGA.