Seismic Assessment of the Concrete Buttress Dam Using Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

This study investigates the structural performance of a concrete buttress dam under the static and seismic loading, focusing on dam–foundation–reservoir interaction. A three-dimensional finite element model was developed using the available geometric, material, and geological data to assess the stress distribution, displacement patterns, and dynamic responses under critical load combinations. Material properties were determined from the assumed values and established empirical relationships, accounting for differences between static and dynamic conditions. Seismic performance was evaluated for Design Basis Level (DBL) and Maximum Credible Level (MCL) scenarios using site-specific ground motion records. Results show that the tensile and compressive stresses are localized and remain below the concrete’s capacity. The maximum crest displacement under MCL loading was 13.0 mm, which is within acceptable safety limits. Overall, the findings indicate that the analyzed configuration maintains sufficient safety margins against cracking, crushing, and excessive deformation, providing a robust technical foundation for the planned capacity-enhancement measures.

Keywords

References

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Contributions of Science and Technology for Engineering
Volume 3, Issue 1
February 2026
Pages 41-51

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History

  • Receive Date: 12 August 2025
  • Revise Date: 08 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 30 October 2025
  • First Publish Date: 31 January 2026
  • Publish Date: 12 February 2026

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