Single-factor sensitivity analysis of earth dams with polymer cutoff wall under stress and seepage fields coupling

Abstract

As a new anti-seepage reinforcement technology for small and medium sized earth dam, polymer cutoff wall has been increasingly used in engineering practice with good anti-seepage performance, strong deformation ability and convenient construction. However, the single-factor sensitivity of earth dams with polymer cutoff wall under stress and seepage fields coupling has not yet been well revealed. In this study, a 3D FE model of earth dam with polymer cutoff wall were established and the influence of polymer cutoff wall parameters on the performance of earth dam was studied by a single-factor sensitivity analysis method. The density, depth, thickness and position of polymer cutoff wall were regarded as the sensitive factors. The safety coefficient of the earth dam, the anti-seepage performance, the von Mises stress, and the horizontal deformation were used as evaluation indicators of the polymer cutoff wall. The sensitivity of the evaluation indicators to the sensitive factors were ranked based upon the sensitivity coefficient. The sensitivity of the aforementioned parameters on the earth dams was presented. The research conclusions may provide some basis for designing the polymer cutoff wall.