Response surface and genetic method of deformation back analysis for high core rockfill dams

Abstract High core rockfill dams exhibit complex deformation mechanisms because of complicated geological conditions, many material partitions and severe weather conditions. When realistic parameters cannot be obtained through laboratory tests or engineering analogies because of effects of size or time, back analysis is necessary to predict deformation characteristics. This paper proposes a method of deformation back analysis based on the response surface method and genetic optimization theory. The parameters of the creep and Duncan–Chang models for the Pubugou gravelly soil core rockfill dam are sequentially calculated. Back analysis performed using this method efficiently yields more precise results than those obtained from laboratory-determined parameters.