Subsidence Effects on Embankments: Combined Empirical‐FEM Approach

To evaluate the effect of mining-induced subsidence on a proposed coal refuse embankment, a two-step, combined empirical/finite element (FE) analysis was conducted. A maximum ground surface subsidence profile was obtained from an empirical prediction algorithm incorporated into a commercially available computer code. The predicted ground displacements were then input as boundary conditions in the FE analysis. A nonlinear elastic material model was utilized to represent the coarse refuse and cohesive fill portions of the dam. The analysis provided an estimate of the location and magnitude of settlement on the dam crest, and indicated the portions of the dam that may be highly stressed. The results located portions of the fill that may require attention during construction, and delineated areas of the dam where instrumentation or periodic field inspection will be needed.