A comparison of model concepts and experiments for seepage processes through a dike with a fault zone

Abstract

Seepage processes through a dike with a fault zone on the landside and on the seaside are numerically and experimentally investigated. The numerical simulation is based on a two-phase (water-gas) flow model concept for porous media. Different discrete model concepts accounting for the fault zones are compared among each other and with the experiments. A good agreement between experimental and numerical results was obtained when the fault zones were discretized with ID elements or with highly resolved 2D elements. We generally recommend choosing ID elements. When the fault zone is modeled as an open pipe, the seepage velocity is considerably overestimated. Concerning dike stability, a fault zone on the landside is much worse compared to a fault zone on the seaside.