Numerical Modeling and Laboratory Analysis for Evaluating the Large Strain Consolidation of Sediments in Dam Reservoirs
Consolidation, Sediment, HCT Test, Numerical Modeling
Sediment deposition on the borders of dam reservoirs gradually reduces their useful storage volume. In the long term, the behavior of the sediment deposit is governed by the large strain consolidation. The analytical solution of Gibson's theory for one-dimensional consolidation makes simplifying assumptions that limit its application. Alternatively, numerical modeling of large strain consolidation using the finite element method allows physical and geometric nonlinearities to be incorporated into the analysis of the phenomenon, achieving accurate approximate solutions for the distribution of the void ratio over time. Field, laboratory and special tests were carried out with the aim of improving the understanding of the behavior of sediments deposited on the borders of dam reservoirs and determining the constitutive parameters of the soil. Numerical simulations incorporating constitutive models were also carried out with the experimental soil data from the study area. Analyses were carried out to gain a better understanding of the distribution of the void ratio, permeability and effective stress over time considering the conditions adopted.