Name: Aljay L.

Pagaran
Year and Block: 2nd Year Block B

FINAL EXAM:

1. What are the three important areas of investigation for planning a reservoir?
Enumerate the investigations that should be made in each of these.
Planning a reservoir requires careful investigation across three essential areas:
hydrological, geological, and environmental studies. Hydrological investigations
assess water availability by analyzing rainfall patterns, streamflow records, and
flood frequencies to determine the reservoir's storage potential. These studies
also evaluate evaporation and seepage losses, sedimentation rates, and future
water demand to ensure long-term sustainability. Equally important are
geological and geotechnical investigations, which focus on the stability and
suitability of the foundation. Engineers examine rock and soil properties, identify
faults and fractures, and conduct permeability studies to prevent seepage issues.
Additionally, slope stability and landslide risks are assessed to ensure the dam's
structural integrity. Lastly, environmental and socioeconomic investigations
analyze the reservoir's impact on ecosystems and nearby communities. This
includes studying flora and fauna, water quality, and downstream effects, as well
as assessing potential displacement of residents and compliance with legal
regulations. By thoroughly addressing these three areas, engineers and planners
can design a reservoir that is efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible.
2. What are the different types of dams that are generally built for the storage of
water? What are the main reasons for the choice between an earth dam and a
concrete dam? Why are the stone masonry dams not popular nowadays?
Dams are built in various forms, including gravity, arch, buttress, and earth and
rockfill dams, depending on structural and geological needs. The choice between
earth dams and concrete dams depends on material availability, cost, and
stability; earth dams are economical and adaptable to broad valleys, while
concrete dams offer durability and high resistance to pressure, making them
ideal for narrow valleys with strong foundations. Stone masonry dams have
declined in use due to advancements in concrete technology, which provides
greater strength, easier construction, and better resistance to seepage.
3. What are the main geological investigations to be made for: (a) The site in
general (b) The dam site (c) The spillway site
Geological investigations play a crucial role in ensuring the stability and safety of
a dam and its reservoir. For the site in general, studies focus on understanding
the broader geological conditions, including identifying rock formations, fault
lines, and groundwater behavior. Engineers assess erosion potential, seismic
activity, and soil properties to determine whether the location is suitable for
reservoir construction. At the dam site, investigations become more detailed,
examining the foundation’s strength and stability. This involves analyzing rock
strength, permeability, and potential seepage risks, along with identifying fault
zones and fractures that could compromise the dam’s integrity. The suitability of
foundation materials is also assessed to ensure long-term structural reliability.
For the spillway site, geological studies focus on erosion resistance, as the
spillway must withstand high-velocity water flow. Engineers evaluate rock
composition to determine its ability to resist degradation, ensuring that the
spillway remains stable and functional over time. Proper geological assessments
in these areas help engineers design a dam that is structurally sound, minimizes
geological risks, and ensures long-term safety and efficiency.
4. What is the suitability of the following rock types for a masonry dam foundation:
(a) Granite (b) Basalt (c) Limestone (d) Schist (e) Sandstone
The suitability of different rock types for a masonry dam foundation depends on
their strength, durability, and permeability. Granite is one of the best choices due
to its high compressive strength, low permeability, and resistance to weathering,
ensuring a stable and durable foundation. Basalt can also be a suitable
foundation material, especially when it is dense and compact, offering good
strength and resistance to erosion. However, highly jointed or porous basalt may
require additional treatment to minimize seepage risks. Limestone has moderate
suitability—while strong when intact, it can be problematic due to its susceptibility
to dissolution by water, which may create seepage paths and compromise
structural integrity over time. Schist, being a foliated metamorphic rock, is
generally less suitable because its layered structure makes it prone to splitting
and weakening under pressure. Foundations built on schist often require
reinforcement to enhance stability. Sandstone varies in suitability depending on
its composition; well-cemented sandstone can provide good support, but porous
varieties may absorb water, weaken over time, and require additional measures
to ensure durability. Overall, granite and dense basalt are the most reliable
options, while limestone, schist, and sandstone require careful evaluation and
reinforcement depending on site-specific conditions.
5. How do structural features like joints, folds, and faults affect the storage area and
the foundation site of a concrete gravity dam?
Structural features such as joints, folds, and faults play a significant role in
determining the stability and effectiveness of a concrete gravity dam. Joints,
which are natural separations in rock formations, can increase permeability,
creating potential seepage paths that reduce water retention efficiency. If these
joints are closely spaced or open, they may require sealing through grouting to
prevent leakage and maintain the dam’s structural integrity. Folds, which result
from the bending of rock layers due to geological forces, can create irregular
foundation conditions. If the layers are steeply inclined or highly deformed, they
may reduce the uniformity and stability of the foundation, potentially requiring
modifications to ensure proper load distribution. Faults, the most critical concern,
involve fractures along which movement has occurred, leading to weakened rock
zones. Active faults can pose seismic risks, while older faults with crushed rock
zones may increase permeability and reduce the dam’s ability to resist water
pressure. To mitigate these challenges, engineers conduct detailed geological
surveys, stability analyses, and foundation treatments such as grouting and
reinforcement, ensuring the dam remains safe and structurally sound over its
lifespan.