Genetic programming model for estimation of settlement in earth dams

This study was designed to apply intelligent methods to predict settlement after constructing central core rockfill dams. Attempts were made in this research to prepare models for predicting settlement of these dams using the information of 50 different central core rockfill dams all over the world using genetic programming (GP) methods. The results indicated that prediction of settlement based on the single parameter of dam height cannot be accurate and other parameters of materials are effective in dam settlement. Based on the sensitivity analysis, parameters such as height of dam, modulus of elasticity of core and shell materials, dry density of core, and internal friction angle of shell materials were considered as effective parameters. The results obtained from comparing the intelligent and empirical relationships showed that GP results were more appropriate, and the new models are ready to be applied as a predictor for future plans to predict settlement of central core rockfill dams.