Influence of Dominant Structural Faces on Anti-Sliding Stability of Gravity Dams in Granite Intrusion Regions
Granite formations provide suitable geological conditions for building gravity dams. However, the presence of intruding granite creates a fractured zone. The interaction of this fractured zone with structural planes and faults can create geological conditions that are unfavorable for the anti-slidin...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-08-01
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| Series: | Applied Sciences |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/15/15/8657 |
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| Summary: | Granite formations provide suitable geological conditions for building gravity dams. However, the presence of intruding granite creates a fractured zone. The interaction of this fractured zone with structural planes and faults can create geological conditions that are unfavorable for the anti-sliding stability of gravity dams. This paper identifies the dominant structural planes that affect the anti-sliding stability of dams by studying the three-dimensional intersection relationships between groups of structural planes, faults, and fracture zones. The three-dimensional distribution and occurrence of the dominant structural planes directly impact the anti-sliding stability and sliding failure mode of gravity dams. Through comprehensive field investigations and systematic analysis of engineering geological data, the spatial distribution characteristics of structural planes and fracture zones were quantitatively characterized. Subsequently, the potential for deep-seated sliding failure of the gravity dam was rigorously evaluated and conclusively dismissed through application of the rigid body limit equilibrium method. It was established that the sliding mode of the foundation of the dam under this combination of structural planes is primarily shallow sliding. Additionally, based on the engineering geological data of the area around the dam, a three-dimensional finite element numerical model was developed to analyze stress–strain calculations under seepage stress coupling conditions and compared with calculations made without considering seepage stress coupling. The importance of seepage in the anti-sliding stability of the foundation of the dam was determined. The research findings provide engineering insights into enhancing the anti-sliding stability of gravity dams in granite distribution areas by (1) identifying critical structural planes and fracture zones that control sliding behavior, (2) demonstrating the necessity of seepage-stress coupling analysis in stability assessments, and (3) guiding targeted reinforcement measures to mitigate shallow sliding risks. |
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| ISSN: | 2076-3417 |