Dynamic response of embankment, concrete-gravity and arch dams including hydrodynamic interaction

An analysis procedure in the frequency domain for determining the earthquake responses of a dam was developed. The procedure inclides hydrodynamic interaction and water compressibility effects. Linear responses of idealized, two dimensional gravity dams and three dimensional dams, including arch dams were obtained. For an infinite uniform region a finite element discretization provides for a proper transmission of pressure waves. Hydrodynamic effects are equivalent to an added mass and added load in the frequency domain equations of motion of the dam. Complex frequency response functions for acceleration at the dam crest are presented for two dimensional concrete gravity and earth dams and for a three dimensional arch dam. Water compressibility and fluid foundation interaction significantly influence the response of concrete gravity dams and are even more important for each dam.