Laboratory Experiments of Surge Pressure Loads Acting on Downstream Dams and Reservoir Banks Caused by Landslides in Narrow, Elongated Reservoirs

Abstract

Mountain reservoirs are often exposed to geological hazards, particularly landslides, posing significant risks to dam stability. This study conducted scaled experiments to investigate the surge pressure loads induced by landslides entering reservoirs under controlled conditions. Landslide volumes ranging from 500 cm3 to 2000 cm3 and slope angles of 35° and 45° were tested under different scenarios. Key parameters, including landslide volume, slope angle, water depth, and the distance between the landslide impact point and the dam were systematically varied to evaluate their effects on the maximum impact pressure along the reservoir bank. Through a systematic analysis of landslide volume, slope angle, water depth, and impact distance, their effects on maximum impact pressure were evaluated. Dimensional analysis and regression modeling were then used to develop a predictive model for maximum impact pressure. The results indicate that larger landslide volumes and steeper slopes amplify impact pressure, whereas greater water depths and larger distances from the impact point reduce it. Empirical equations for predicting impact pressure on reservoir banks and dam faces demonstrated strong agreement with experimental data. These findings offer crucial insights into the mechanisms influencing impact pressures in reservoirs and provide practical guidance for dam stability assessments under landslide-induced surge conditions.