FEM–DEM modeling of pseudo static experiments on scaled‐down rockfill dams with dry stone pitching

Abstract Rockfill dams with stone pitching are specific hydraulic structures generally built in the early XXth century where stones used to be hand‐placed without mortar constitute upward and downward dam faces. Few studies have been carried out quantify critical role of stability against both static seismic forces. Herein, a numerical model is proposed pseudo‐static tests performed on four different scaled‐down rockfill pitching. A mixed FEM–DEM approach used, two constitutive models were considered for backfill. validation first based tests. Then, displacement profiles safety factors failure analyzed compared studied cases. This study allows qualitative conclusions drawn pave way upcoming investigations actual same kind.