Dynamic centrifuge model tests on asphalt-concrete core dams

Abstract

In this research, the dynamic behaviour of a rockfill dam with an asphalt-concrete core has been studied utilising centrifuge modelling. Instruments including accelerometers and LVDTs were installed within and on the models and response accelerations and induced deformations were recorded. The recorded data and observations of the centrifuge models showed that the induced deformations in the asphalt core under an impact load with a large acceleration of 0·7g were very small. On the other hand, comparing the results of centrifuge tests with the results of three-dimensional numerical dynamic analyses of a prototype dam indicated that the numerical results corresponded well with the data recorded during centrifuge tests and the asphalt core showed similar behaviour in both numerical and centrifuge models. The results of non-linear three-dimensional dynamic response analyses of the case study selected for this research showed that under a severe earthquake, the induced shear strains in most parts of the asphalt core zone were still small and the dam behaved in a safe manner.