Reliability analysis of embankments using stochastic finite element method

Embankments are impounding structures made from compacted soil. Several methods can be used for determining mechanical behavior of these structures. Among them, the deterministic Finite Element Method (FEM) is a powerful method for this purpose. The main drawback in the application of this technique generally arises from the large uncertainties affecting the mechanical properties of materials in the model. Hence, finite element method in conjunction with stochastic analysis methods should then be used to assess the results of the analyses in probabilistic terms. In this paper, the usefulness of this approach for engineering purposes is investigated by analyses of embankments constructed by compacted soil. Finite element analyses are performed together with Monte Carlo simulations (MCs) and Point Estimate Method (PEM) and the results are compared. The results show that this technique can be useful to evaluate the relative influence of each designing parameters. Uncertainties affecting vertical displacements which may influence a large earth dam are also presented.

Keywords:

Finite Element Method , Embankment , Reliability , Monte Carlo Simulation , Point Estimate Method