Abstract:
A numerical model for analysis of masonry gravity dams based on the Discrete Element Method is presented.
The dam and the rock foundation are represented as block assemblies, using elementary 3- and 4-
node blocks. Complex block shapes are obtained by assembling the elementary blocks into macroblocks,
allowing the model to be applied in various situations ranging from equivalent continuum to fully discontinuum
analysis. A contact formulation was developed, which represents the interaction between macroblocks
in terms of contacts established between elementary blocks, based on an accurate edge–edge
approach. The main numerical aspects of the model are described, addressing in particular the contact
creation and update procedures, and the numerical devices that support an efficient explicit solution
algorithm. An application to the safety evaluation of an existing masonry dam is discussed, including
stress analysis in the structure, and the assessment of sliding failure mechanisms, involving different
paths in the vicinity of the dam–rock interface.
