Numerical modelling of a clay core earth fill dam with and without creep deformation

ABSTRACT: Clayey soils would tend to display creep deformations. This could be exhibited as slow movements of natural clay slopes and embankment structures founded on clays. An aging earth fill dam with clay core and clay blanket was analyzed with emphasis on the effect of creep behaviour on displacements using a finite element software program. Undisturbed clay samples taken from site were tested in the laboratory to obtain parameters to be used in the numerical modelling. Laboratory tests include: index testing, one-dimensional consolidation tests, consolidated drained direct shear tests, consolidated undrained direct simple shear tests, and isotropically consolidated undrained triaxial compression tests. Results from numerical simulations with and without creep are presented in this paper.