Abstract
This study explores the capabilities of the Material Point Method (MPM) and a critical state-compatible, bounding surface plasticity model for sands to simulate the flow liquefaction phenomenon and the subsequent runout distance following a tailings dam failure. A boundary value problem, inspired by a real failure of an upstream tailings dam, was simulated using MPM and the computational platform Anura3D. The SANISAND constitutive model is used to simulate the response of the tailings, and its parameters are calibrated using undrained triaxial test results. An increase in pore pressure was imposed in the foundation as the triggering event. The results highlight the capabilities of the MPM and SANISAND in simulating the complex mechanisms involved in tailings dam failures and provide insights into flow liquefaction material behaviour during such events
Authors
Erick Lino | SRK Consulting Canada
Mahdi Taiebat | University of British Columbia, Canada
Arcesio Lizcano | SRK Consulting Canada
