Dam concrete material characterization

Experimental and numerical study

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Water supply, flood control and sustainable energy production are of great importance for both developed and under development countries. Maintenance and rehabilitation issues of existing structures and important new investments in dam construction require technological advances for more efficient, sustainable and safe structures.

 

Dam concrete experimental characterization has particular challenges. The use of large aggregate maximum size implies the use of large specimens. Is common to remove the larger aggregates, cast smaller specimens and embed monitoring devices with the remaining wet-screened concrete. Although it has similar properties, the need for reliable relationships is essential for concrete quality control during construction, safety control and monitoring data analysis throughout service life.