Author(s): Jose Antonio Moreno; Fernando Delgado

Linked Author(s): Fernando Delgado

Keywords: Modular dam; Portable dam; Inflatable dam; Sustainable structures

Abstract: Throughout history, human beings have been building infrastructures hydraulics to use the water resources of its environment in its favor; The construction of a dam, and in general terms of all civil works, is associated with the determination of the environmental impact generated both by the dam itself, and by the entire construction process. This aspect is intensified in areas that could be classified as environmentally sensitive, where the demands from the environmental point of view are greater. This aspects, may involve a cost that is unaffordable and the not viability the execution of the works. There are many rivers of environmental value in which water catchments are required for irrigation and supplies. Concrete little dams represent an obstacle to ecological continuity. Likewise, in developing countries or in emergency situations, a system is needed that allows us to build dams quickly, cheaply and using very little machinery, allowing us to reach remote areas. A technical solution is presented for the use of modular and portable INFLATABLE DAMS. In times of water diversion, the little dam will maintain its inflated position, while the rest of the time it will remain deflated on the river bed. This will allow for a natural flow of the river course with minimal environmental impact. Two elements are distinguished, the inflatable body that presents the obstacle to the water and acts as a dam, and the bearing / stabilizing element, which is a modular slab that acts as a stabilizing foundation for the dam, in detail the components would be; INFLATABLE BODY: It consists of toroidal pneumatic elements like truck or vehicle wheels, with a stiffening and protection system. Inflation occurs simultaneously with a pneumatic circuit, using a compressor supplied with solar-powered, so using materials recycled, supplied the system with renewable energy. MODULAR FOUNDATION: It consists of a light rectangular metal structure that rests on the river bed, and inside it precast concrete blocks are placed or, where appropriate, stone gabions from the same place where it is going to be built, whose set forms a foundation modular slab type. This solution presented is a viable alternative to the construction of permanent little dams in rivers, with the possibility of making the environment and human development compatible, using recycled materials and renewable energies.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3850/IAHR-39WC2521711920221883

Year: 2022