DEVELOPMENT IN EMBANKMENT DAM ENGINEERING

Abstract

The developments of embankment dams over the last five millenia is discussed. In the first chapter the historical development of embankment dams during the ancient period and medieval period is discussed. Dams have been constructed in Asia, Europe and Africa during the ancient and medieval times. No proper design procedures had been evolved during these times. The embankment dams during the ancient period were homogeneous and the central impervious core was introduced during the medieval period. Due to the rudimentary hydrological knowledge, selection of proper spillway capacity was the main problem, which resulted in many failures due to overtopping. In the 2nd chapter, development during the 19th century is discussed. During this time, due to the industrial revolution, there was a great upsurge in reservoir construction in order to satisfy the water demand of urban population. Dam building was concentrated mainly in the industrialized countries, especially in Great Britain and USA. The puddle clay core became the standard design of dam in Great Britain and the desirability of having transition zone was realised during this period. The hydraulic fill method and the pure rockfill dam was also introduced at the latter part of the 19th century. By the end of the 19th century, design principles had evolved leading to safe and reasonably economic earth dam design. The development of Soil Mechanics is discussed in the 3rd chapter. Development of slope stability analysis and seepage theory is discussed. Terzaghi's concept of 'effective stress' and its significance and applications are also discussed....