Random finite element method for the seismic analysis of gravity dams

The anatomy of the random field seismic responses are presented first, followed by a set of parametric analyses. The impact of correlation length, a single- vs. double-random field, one- or two-dimensional material distributions, ground motion intensity and record-to-record variability and, lastly, dam class are all investigated herein. The uncertainty and dispersion of the seismic responses are quantified in each model; it is found that concrete heterogeneity affects the seismic performance evaluation and should be considered in a structural assessment and risk analysis.