GPDEM-based stochastic seismic response analysis of high concrete-faced rockfill dam with spatial variability of rockfill properties based on plastic deformation

The spatial variability of rockfill properties is the key factor affecting stochastic seismic responses. Herein, an efficient probabilistic analysis method for stochastic seismic analysis named the generalized probability density evolution method (GPDEM) is proposed and combined with the random field generated by K-L decomposition to evaluate the stochastic seismic responses of concrete-faced rockfill dams (CFRDs) during earthquakes. The vertical plastic deformation is selected as a significant index to quantify the effect of rockfill spatial variability. First, a series of 2D random fields and a finite element model of the CFRD profile are established. Each realization of random fields is assigned to each grid depending on the coordinates. Then, four working conditions (different constitutive model parameters, cross-correlation coefficients, concrete-faced slab contact positions and earthquake intensities) are investigated and compared in CFRD dynamic calculations. Finally, the GPDEM-based vertical plastic deformation results are obtained, and probabilistic analyses are carried out to evaluate the influence of rockfill property uncertainty on the stochastic seismic responses. Multiple figures of the probability density function (PDF) and cumulative distribution function (CDF) of dynamic calculations are shown as examples to analyze the marked effect of rockfill spatial variability. The results demonstrate that the control parameter (M-f) is the most influential parameter of stochastic seismic responses in the GPDEM. The cross-correlation coefficient increases the probability of large vertical plastic deformation compared to zero. Moreover, the nonfaced-slab side is more sensitive to the effect of rockfill uncertainties. Increasing the seismic motion intensity causes a larger probability beyond the limit.

Automated summary

A probabilistic analysis method named the generalized probability density evolution method (GPDEM) combined with random fields generated by K-L decomposition was proposed for evaluating the stochastic seismic responses of concrete-faced rockfill dams (CFRDs). The study found that the control parameter and cross-correlation coefficient significantly influenced the stochastic seismic response, with the nonfaced-slab side being more sensitive to rockfill uncertainties. The research highlights the importance of understanding and accounting for rockfill spatial variability in seismic analysis.