Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Concrete Arch Dam Using Concrete Elasto-Plastic Models

In this research, materially nonlinear dynamic analysis of concrete arch dam using Concrete Elasto-Plastic models is attempted. At first, common models for nonlinear analysis of massive plain concrete structures are investigated and finally concrete material model of Wiliam–Warnke (five parameters version) for tensional and compression failure is selected. This model is used versus other usual models such as Mohr-Coulomb and Drucker-Prager models for analysis of Morrow Point concrete arch dam under an intensive ground motion of order of 1.0g for the peak ground acceleration. A suitable algorithm for stress integration and conversion of engineering stresses to objective ones is proposed. This stress calculation is particularly desired in large deformations analysis. Fluid-structure interaction is also considered including water compressibility and reservoir bottom absorption. Staggered approach is used for coupled-fluid structure solutions. Although the foundation is considered as rigid. It is demonstrated that usual nonlinear plastic models such as Mohr-Columb and Drucker –Prager models unlike special concrete models are not capable to capture real behavior of such concrete structure. It is suggested that special concrete models such as William–Warnke must be used for the plastic nonlinear analysis of concrete arch dam.