Geologic problems related to dam sites in Jordan and their solutions

The geologic structures associated with several selected dam sites in Jordan and the tectonic effects on dam foundations and reservoir margins are reviewed. Rock defects, especially discontinuities represented by faults and closely spaced, open joints are investigated. Related problems, such as loss of water from the reservoir by seepage and leakage within the dam foundation are evaluated. The regional seismicity is analyzed and a design earthquake is established for each dam site.

Two major embankment dams are investigated, together with two large proposed dams and several small dams.

This paper discusses in some detail the regional setting and site-specific geology, and the occurrence, size and inclination of faults and joints at each dam site. Moreover, the effects of the faults on the operational performance of each dam are described and specific techniques are used or proposed for remediation are outlined.

The study shows that the combination of faults and joint features cause leakage problems at the operational dams in Jordan. Although, preventive measures such as grouting have been implemented, further leakage and/or seepage problems are anticipated and a monitoring system is needed to control and foresee such problems.

Jordan is an earthquake-prone region. Consequently, it is recommended that the design of embankment dams in the vicinity of the Dead Sea-Jordan Valley Rift should include such considerations as dynamic loading and associated hazards, including embankment acceleration zoning, foundation liquefaction risk and rockhead rupture. The magnitude of the design earthquake at each dam site can be estimated following the guidelines of ICOLD (1989), which are based on probabilistic seismic hazard analysis.