Stresses and strains in the clay cores of earth dams

Abstract

1. A redistribution of stresses and strains occurs in the core under the effect of steep rocky flanks which promotes the occurrence of considerable forces of shear resistance in the contact zone. An arch effect is observed in the center of the gorge and the formation of tension zones near the flank abutments of the core. 2. An approximate determination of these changes in stress and strain can be accomplished by the net-point methods on the BESM. 3. A comparison of field and calculated data shows a good qualitative similarity of displacements and relative deformations, which indirectly confirms the correctness of the results obtained. 4. Fractures on the crest and a decrease of lateral pressing of the core toward the foundation are the main danger for a core. An estimate of these quantities (including the conditions of development of shear slips) for dams constructed in triangular gorges is possible by means of the equations and graphs presented. 5. For modern earth dams with a core constructed in gorges with steep rocky flanks it is necessary to check the possibility of the formation of cracks, which can be accomplished in the first approximation by the proposed method.