In the world of dam construction, innovation is key to ensuring safety and efficiency, particularly for high concrete face rockfill dams (CFRDs). A recent study published in *Yantu gongcheng xuebao* (translated to *Chinese Journal of Geotechnical Engineering*) sheds light on the mechanical properties of the interface between extrusion walls and cushion layers, a critical aspect of CFRD design. Led by Dr. Sun Dawei from China Three Gorges University, the research could have significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in the construction and maintenance of large-scale hydropower projects.
The study focuses on the extrusion wall technology, which has become widely adopted in the 21st century for its ability to enhance the stability and performance of CFRDs. The research team conducted large-scale simple shear tests on the contact surface between the extrusion wall and the cushion layer, comparing the mechanical properties of zigzag and planar extrusion walls. This is the first time such detailed investigations have been carried out, providing valuable insights into the behavior of these materials under stress.
“Understanding the mechanical properties of the contact surface is crucial for predicting the stress and deformation behavior of the face slab,” explained Dr. Sun Dawei. “Our findings indicate that the zigzag extrusion wall causes larger rotation magnitudes of the blocks in the cushion materials and greater deformation near the contact surface compared to the planar extrusion wall.”
The research also employed discrete element numerical simple shear tests to analyze the shear deformation and rotation characteristics of the cushion layer materials. This innovative approach allowed the team to identify key influencing factors and develop a more accurate model of the contact surface. The results of these tests are expected to improve the accuracy of stress and deformation calculations for the face slab of high CFRDs, ultimately enhancing the safety and longevity of these structures.
The commercial impact of this research is substantial. High CFRDs are integral to many hydropower projects, and ensuring their stability is paramount for energy production and infrastructure investment. By providing a deeper understanding of the mechanical properties of the extrusion wall-cushion layer interface, this study offers a foundation for more informed design decisions and potentially reduces the risk of costly failures.
Dr. Sun Dawei and his team, including collaborators from the Geotechnical Engineering Department at Nanjing Hydraulic Research Institute, have set a new standard for research in this field. Their work not only advances scientific knowledge but also paves the way for more robust and efficient dam construction practices.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, the insights gained from this research will be invaluable. The study published in *Yantu gongcheng xuebao* marks a significant step forward in the quest for safer and more reliable hydropower infrastructure, ensuring that the benefits of large-scale dams can be fully realized while minimizing risks.