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The Random Finite Element Method (RFEM) in Steady Seepage Analysis

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Part of the book series: CISM Courses and Lectures ((CISM,volume 491))

Abstract

The effect of stochastic soil permeability on confined seepage occurring beneath water retaining structures has been studied. Random field concepts for the generation of soil permeability properties with a fixed mean, standard deviation and spatial correlation structure, have been combined with finite element methods to perform Monte Carlo simulations of the seepage problem. Analyses have been performed for the case of a dam with two cut-off walls. The results of parametric studies to gauge the effect of the standard deviation and correlation structure of the permeability on the output statistics relating to seepage quantities, exit gradients and uplift pressures are presented. In all cases, comparison is made with results that would be achieved on a deterministic basis. Flow rates and other quantities of interest are shown to be significantly affected by both the standard deviation and the correlation structure of soil permeability.

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© 2007 CISM, Udine

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Griffiths, D., Fentont, G.A. (2007). The Random Finite Element Method (RFEM) in Steady Seepage Analysis. In: Griffiths, D.V., Fenton, G.A. (eds) Probabilistic Methods in Geotechnical Engineering. CISM Courses and Lectures, vol 491. Springer, Vienna. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-211-73366-0_10

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