Dynamic Behavior of Polymer Antiseepage Wall for Earth Dam by Centrifuge Test

Abstract

The polymer antiseepage wall is a new technology for the reinforcement of earth dams. It has the advantages of being efficient, ultrathin, minimally invasive, and economical, which makes it even more popular and widespread in many applications. However, research on the seismic response of the polymer antiseepage wall is lacking. Because most earth dams are damaged by seismic loads and the antiseepage system is the weakest part, the related dynamic studies are of great significance for this new type of polymer antiseepage wall. In this study, two physical centrifuge models manufactured with prototype materials were used to investigate the seismic response characteristics of a prototype structure. The results of the seismic response characteristics of the earth dam with a polymer antiseepage wall are presented, along with a comparison of the response characteristics for earth dams with a concrete core. The results show that the earth dam with a polymer antiseepage wall had a good capacity for seismic damage resistance.