On sensitivity analysis of a nonlinear gravity dam model

This paper investigates the sensitivity of the nonlinear responses in a gravity dam to the variability of the input parameters. For this purpose, the classical finite element analysis of coupled system is adopted. The coupled dynamic interaction of dam-foundation-reservoir system is modeled based on Lagrangian-Eulerian approach while the reservoir is modeled as a compressible medium and the foundation is assumed to be massless. The non-linearity in the concrete is originated from an adopted/extended rotating smeared crack model. The finite element model is excited using both the near-fault and far-field ground motions. The global parameters such as modulus of elasticity ratio, reservoir bottom absorption, reservoir length and height, earthquake intensity and etc. are assumed to be random variables. Finally, the sensitivity of the nonlinear responses in terms of crack propagation and crest displacement is assessed. Results of this research can be used in global uncertainty reduction and developing a robust probabilistic models.