This study represents the technical due diligence of the hydroelectric plant consisting of the
Anderson Dam (Leroy Anderson) and its power station, located in California, USA.
This technical contribution is structured analyzing the hydrogeological aspects of the dam site's
geographical context, including its structural behavior in the event of significant seismic events, and
then going more in detail on the energy assessments that take into account the temporal distribution
of rainfall and flow rates, as well as the efficiency of the hydraulic machinery installed.
Abstract This study represents the technical due diligence of the hydroelectric plant consisting of the
Anderson Dam (Leroy Anderson) and its power station, located in California, [...]
The equilibrium of spherical domes is a fundamental topic in structural engineering, particularly for masonry structures, where the material’s inability to resist tension influences the force distribution. This study proposes an integral formulation for the equilibrium of a spherical dome, incorporating normal stresses and shear stresses, explicitly considering their spatial variations. The formulation extends classical membrane and bending theories by integrating the effects of stress gradients and torsional moments, providing a more detailed understanding of force equilibrium. The proposed approach aligns with and extends the concept of thrust surfaces, as discussed by Sajtos et al. (2020), introducing a framework that accommodates general force distributions and possible cracking patterns. The results suggest that the inclusion of moment equilibrium considerations leads to a more precise determination of the structural safety of cracked domes. This study contributes to the ongoing research on the stability and failure mechanisms of domes by offering a more comprehensive analytical framework.
Abstract The equilibrium of spherical domes is a fundamental topic in structural engineering, particularly for masonry structures, where the material’s inability to resist tension [...]
Hydropower plant future production estimation is based on hydrological-hydraulic data. The present metholodogy validates the median as the reference parameter to be used for a better interpretation of statistical series, because it is a centered value where duration curves and their complementary curves intersect. Then, it is not affected by extreme events, providing a well representation of the whole dataset.
Abstract Hydropower plant future production estimation is based on hydrological-hydraulic data. The present metholodogy validates the median as the reference parameter to be used for [...]
The Himalayan region, characterized by complex geological formations and high tectonic activity, presents significant challenges for tunnel construction. This paper examines geomechanical issues such as tunnel squeezing, stress-induced instability, and rock bursting, with a focus on hydropower and railway tunnel projects in Nepal and India. Case studies, including the Chameliya Hydroelectric Project, Parbati II Hydroelectric Project, Nilgirikhola Hydroelectric Project, and railway tunnels in the Garhwal Himalaya, highlight the impact of weak, schistose rock masses and extreme overburden pressures. Various engineering methodologies, including empirical, semianalytical, analytical, and numerical modeling approaches, are discussed to assess stress states and deformation behavior. The study underscores the need for adaptive excavation techniques, such as the New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) and rock mass classification systems, to ensure tunnel stability. By integrating probabilistic analysis and advanced support systems, this research contributes to optimizing underground construction strategies in geologically challenging terrains.
Abstract The Himalayan region, characterized by complex geological formations and high tectonic activity, presents significant challenges for tunnel construction. This paper examines [...]
This thesis is divided into two parts: in the first part the collapse of the WTC1, WTC 2 (Twin Towers) and WTC 7 buildings following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 is analysed. In the second part, the collapse type and strength of frame buildings with different topological characteristics. What links the two parts is structural robustness.
Below is an overview of the work with a description of the topic covered in each Chapter.
Chapter 1: description of the structural and fire protection characteristics of the WTC 1, WTC 2 and WTC 7 buildings.
Chapter 2: timeline of the terrorist events of September 11, 2001.
Chapter 3: description of the types of fire, the performance of structures and the behavior of the main building materials (steel, concrete) to fire.
Chapter 4: analysis of the main hypotheses of the collapse of the Twin Towers present in the literature.
Chapter 5: definition of structural robustness, structural toughness, vulnerability. Description of project strategies to prevent progressive collapses.
Chapter 6: measurement of the structural strength of buildings with a reinforced concrete frame structure. through Discrete Element simulations (DEM).
Chapter 7: discussion of progressive collapse due to impacts from an analytical and bibliographical point of view.
Abstract This thesis is divided into two parts: in the first part the collapse of the WTC1, WTC 2 (Twin Towers) and WTC 7 buildings following the terrorist attacks of 11 September [...]
Tunnel collapse is a critical issue in geotechnical engineering, affecting the safety, functionality, and economic viability of underground structures. This study examines the primary failure mechanisms of tunnels, including roof instability, shear failure of sidewalls, base heave, wedge failure, and progressive collapse, with a particular focus on hydropower tunnels. The role of principal stress directions and stress redistribution in failure processes is analyzed, highlighting the effects of excavation-induced unloading, in situ stress concentration, and external influences such as groundwater infiltration and seismic activity. Special attention is given to hydropower tunnels, where transient hydrostatic pressure variations, mineralogical degradation, and high in situ stresses increase the likelihood of collapse. The study integrates limit analysis and fracture mechanics to model tunnel failure mechanisms, emphasizing how plastic deformation and crack propagation contribute to instability. Numerical simulations and real-world case studies illustrate the interaction between stress conditions and structural response. The findings suggest that tunnel stability is rarely governed by a single factor but rather by a combination of geological, structural, and environmental influences that evolve over time. Future research should focus on the development of real-time monitoring systems using artificial
Abstract Tunnel collapse is a critical issue in geotechnical engineering, affecting the safety, functionality, and economic viability of underground structures. This study examines [...]
In this paper, a number of innovative technologies are presented that have the potential to improve the efficiency and utilization of hydropower. These technologies include new turbine designs, improved efficiency, small hydro.
Abstract In this paper, a number of innovative technologies are presented that have the potential to improve the efficiency and utilization of hydropower. These technologies include [...]
Robustness plays a relevant role in the capacity of a structure to sustain abnormal loads
or to deal with unexpected events with large effects, such as explosions and terroristic
attacks. Such situations on dams may have extremely large consequences. For buildings,
the design approach that best implements robustness concepts is represented by the so
called “Consequence Based Design”: even if nothing is known about the cause, selective
element removals and extreme load on the structure are modeled, and their effects are
determined with respect to progressive collapse and damage arrest.
In the paper we try to set-up a “Consequence Based Assessment” of a typical example of
a gravity dam built between the ‘30s and ‘40s of the last century in the northwestern
Italian Alps. A simplified model of the structure is adopted. Removal of parts of the dam
cross-section is assumed to occur: the effects of the extent of damage is discussed on the
bases of the tension generated within the body of the dam
Abstract Robustness plays a relevant role in the capacity of a structure to sustain abnormal loads
or to deal with unexpected events with large effects, such as explosions and terroristic [...]
Abstract The Italian Committee on Large Dams has established a forum for young engineers to overcome the challenges of a generational gap in experience.
Technical Due Diligence Report – Anderson Dam & Hydropower Plant (California, USA) 
