Observations of dam performance during earthquakes over the past 50 years have focused the attention of the dam engineering profession on the importance of reliable estimates of seismically induced deformations of embankment dams. It is now widely recognized that earthquake damage of an embankment dam is closely related to the dam's earthquake-induced deformations. It is also known that reliable assessment of future seismic performance requires appropriate evaluation of expected dam...
More DescriptionObservations of dam performance during earthquakes over the past 50 years have focused the attention of the dam engineering profession on the importance of reliable estimates of seismically induced deformations of embankment dams. It is now widely recognized that earthquake damage of an embankment dam is closely related to the dam's earthquake-induced deformations. It is also known that reliable assessment of future seismic performance requires appropriate evaluation of expected dam seismic deformations. Thus, over the past few decades, there has been a marked increase in the use of numerical analysis in engineering practice for estimating seismic deformations of embankment dams. This report is intended to provide guidance on the evaluation of seismic deformations of embankment dams and on the use of numerical analysis procedures for such evaluations. It is intended to serve as a reference on available analysis methods for consultants, regulators, and owners involved in performing, reviewing, and procuring analyses of seismic stability and deformations of embankment dams. Because engineering practice in this field will likely continue to evolve rapidly, this guidance is expected to require periodic review and updating in the future.