Estudo da eficiência de tratamentos de fundação de barragens projetadas sobre fundações permeáveis utilizando modelagem numérica do fluxo

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of foundation treatments applied to dams built over permeable foundations, using numerical modeling as the main analysis tool. The focus is on understanding the behavior of subsurface flow under different scenarios, considering technical solutions commonly adopted in geotechnical designs to control seepage in dam structures. Three distinct foundation conditions were analyzed: without any type of treatment, representing the natural condition of the permeable foundation; with the implementation of an upstream impervious blanket; and with the installation of a cutoff trench. For each treatment type, different geometries were considered in order to assess the variation in results due to changes in depth and length of the elements. The trenches were modeled with depths of 5, 7.5, and 10 meters, while the impervious blankets were simulated with lengths of 50, 100, and 150 meters. The simulations were performed using GeoStudio software (student version), with the SEEP/W module, which enables the analysis of water flow. The results obtained from numerical modeling were compared to theoretical values estimated based on equations found in specialized literature. The objective of this comparison is to evaluate the adherence between traditional theoretical methods and the data obtained through simulation, as well as to identify possible limitations or discrepancies that may arise in the process of estimating seepage in permeable foundations. The adopted approach seeks to contribute to the improvement of technical understanding of the analyzed solutions and to support future design decisions.