Strength assessment of earth dams

A comparative method for estimating the stress-strain state of earth dams under the effect of static load is given in the paper using spatial and plane-strain models. The results of assessment of stress-strain state of several earth dams using these methods are given. Analysis of the results obtained allows us to conclude that a plane calculation model gives results almost identical to the ones obtained with spatial model; in future that can be the basis for developing recommendations on the use of certain calculation models. Some features of stress state in a spatial case are revealed, indicating the occurrence of dangerous areas with the greatest stresses