Performance Evaluation of Critical Geosystems Using Multiscale Methods

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Countries around the world rely on various geotechnical infrastructure for flood control, water storage and hydroelectric power generation. These critical geosystems typically involve a porous media interacting with structural elements such as spillway walls, conduits associated with outlet works or adjoining gravity structures supporting the embankment. The failure of levees, or embankment dams by internal erosion may occur under high water levels during flood events or under normal operating conditions without an apparent triggering event. The latter can be attributed to various factors including decay of existing tree roots or invasive wildlife activities that result in local voids within levees or embankment dams that remain concealed until the safety of the earth structure is jeopardized. The worldwide average cost of failed or damaged earthen structures due to these factors exceeds billions of dollars per year. The negative impact of soil deterioration and erosion-related failure in geosystems is not limited to earth structures. Leaking pipes under or near existing structures are also known to cause sudden and unnoticed failure.