Numerical Simulation on the Three-dimensional Seepage Field of Zhelamuqing Tailings Dam

Based on the engineering geological, hydrogeological conditions and survey results of Zhelamuqing tailings dam, two types seepage problems in the tailings dam which are saturated seepage and saturated - unsaturated seepage were described and solved by Darcy law and Richards Equation respectively. Then the three-dimensional seepage field of tailings dam under steady saturated state was simulated by finite element method (FEM). And the seepage line of saturated - unsaturated seepage field in the tailings dam was simulated and predicted by numerical analysis method when the embankment is enduring the flood. Subsequently, the simulated seepage line of saturated - unsaturated seepage field in the tailings dam was verified by the survey result. Results show that it is feasible to describe the saturated seepage and saturated - unsaturated seepage by means of Darcy law and Richards Equation respectively and it is effective to simulate the three-dimensional seepage field of tailings dam under steady saturated state by using the finite element software Midas GTS. Results also show that the simulated seepage line of saturated - unsaturated seepage field in the tailings dam agree with the survey result.