Abstract
In this study, the centrifuge models that have been designed and built to investigate the impact of animal burrows on the geotechnical performance of an existing earthen structure are described. The experiments have been conducted on a homogeneous levee with 1:1 side slopes and a horizontal toe drain. Horizontal burrows of cylindrical-shaped were introduced at different elevations within the body of the levee. The upstream water level was increased until slope failure is observed. Pore pressure within the embankment and surface displacements were monitored during the experiments. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) was also used to determine the deformation of the levee cross section based on the images taken using three digital cameras. In this paper, a summary of the test procedure and selected results will be presented. The developed failure mechanism as a result of the introduced burrows is also described.
| Original language | English |
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| Title of host publication | Canadian Geotechnical Conference- GeoManitoba 2012, Winnipeg, Manitoba |
| Publisher | Canadian Geotechnical Society |
| Number of pages | 5 |
| Volume | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 2012 |
| Externally published | Yes |