Minimizing Embankment Damage During Overtopping Flow

Abstract

DTFH61-85-C-00131The hydraulic and erosional characteristics of overtopping flow are examined. Methods of protecting earth embankments of dams, levees, and roadways from damage during overtopping flow are investigated. Nineteen full-scale tests of bare earth embankments (unprotected) were conducted to derive baseline erosion rate relationships. Thirty-eight full-scale hydraulic tests examined the performance of selected commercially available embankment protection systems under various hydraulic conditions. These included vegetation, geotextiles, chemicals, cements, concrete blocks, gabions, and riprap. Failure modes and hydraulic stresses at the failure threshold were determined and compared to results from other investigators. Design and installation considerations are presented which address observed failure modes