Geotechnical rock-mass evaluation of the Anamur dam site, Turkey

Abstract This paper describes a feasibility-level geotechnical evaluation carried out at Anamur dam site, in terms of stability analysis of dam foundation, excavation slopes and a diversion tunnel. The proposed Anamur dam will be built across the Anamur river on the Alanya metamorphic series which consists of phyllite, schist and slate units at the site. Geotechnical investigations included drilling for core, pumping tests, sampling for laboratory testing, and a detailed discontinuity survey. Uniaxial compressive strength, density, triaxial compressive strength and direct shear tests, have all been carried out in the laboratory. Discontinuity data are processed for the determination of dominant sets and for the rock mass characterization in terms of classification systems. Evaluation concentrated on kinematic analysis in slope stability, Goodman's bearing capacity approach in foundation stability and rock mass classification for diversion tunnel stability assessment. The geotechnical evaluation of the proposed dam and reservoir site established that there will be no stability problems. Detailed geotechnical investigations are required for the final design of this project.