Dynamic Uplift Research in Collaboration with the Bureau of Reclamation

The US Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation is collaborating with the Fast Hybrid Testing Laboratory of the University of Colorado to investigate dynamic uplift in dams.

This is a well known problem in which uplift (hydrostatic and hydrodynamic pressures along cracks) during and after earthquakes remain elusive. Analyses have shown that they may play a dominant role in the safety assessment of dams.

The University of Colorado, in the first phase, will perform dynamic tests on rough concrete (60 by 60 inch) with pressure heads equivalent to 120 ft. Joints will be dynamically loaded, and pressure surge/drops measured. Effectiveness of drains assessed, and models developed.