ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: Three tests of failure of rockfill dams with upstream face (1 test) and central clay core (2 tests) were performed to explore its failure mechanism. The conclusion is that the structural properties of the upstream face or clay core dominates the reservoir water release, and so the failure hydrograph. Failure was more brittle for the more resistant impervious element: the rockfill dam with the widest clay core of the two cores tested. The rockfill dam with upstream face showed a step by step failure, not so sudden as the failure of the rockfill dams with central core. Further research may establish criteria about how to assess the failure hydrograph from the particular properties of the dam.
