Author(s): Luong Minh Chinh; Krzysztof Radzicki
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Thermal monitoring; Dam and dyke safety; Flood control; Internal erosion; Seepage; Leakage
Abstract: Vietnam is a country with about 10 thousand small and large reservoirs, in which nearly 500 reservoirs have a large dam (ICOLD). Most dams built in Vietnam in the early stages were earth and rock dams, while concrete dams were built and developed only in 15 recent years in new hydropower projects. Currently about 1200 earth dams are degraded, and their upgrading and improvement are required (MARD). The phenomenon of erosion and seepage inside the dam itself is one of the main factors affecting the structure and safety of the earth dykes and dams. At present, the thermal monitoring method is one of the key methods for monitoring these processes. The applications of distributed temperature sensors and the recent development of methods and modeling for analyzing and calculating the coupled heat and water transfer phenomena make it possible to detect and analyze the change and development of seepage and erosion inside the dykes and dams. The thermal monitoring method has improved the quality of observations for detecting and monitoring the seepage and leaks in the earth dams and dykes. The efficient and accurate application of this method can help Vietnam to minimize the probability of a disaster occurring in irrigation and hydropower facilities. At the same time, it can minimize the loss of life and property due to floods and natural disasters causing dyke breaks and landslides. It can also minimize the cost of operation, repair and maintenance of the structures.
Year: 2014