Evaluation and treatment of seepage problems at Chapar-Abad Dam, Iran

Engineering geological properties of the ground at the Chapar-Abad Dam were investigated in order to evaluate seepage problems and to select a proper method of water-proofing prior to construction. The dam is located to the northwest of Iran and is undergoing construction phase. The geology of the site consists of a series of Early Cambrian limestones and shales that crop out on the abutments and a valley that is filled by 60 m of alluvium deposits. The presence of thick alluvium deposits with various coefficients of permeability along the foundation demonstrates a possible seepage problem after water impoundment in the reservoir. The potential of water seepage was evaluated by the study of joint systems of the rock units, the use of numerical analysis to simulate water flow in the ground, and by conducting in-situ tests to estimate the permeability's values. Based on the obtained results and by reviewing many types of water-proofing methods regarding cost, feasibility and safety factors, the installation of a grout curtain is suggested.