Inflatable dams are essentially cylindrical membrane structures which are attached to a rigid horizontal base along two of their generators. They may be inflated by water, air, or a combination of water and air. Two-dimensional vibrations of long cylindrical membranes were investigated under the previous grant. This continuation will examine motions which vary along the dam. In addition, conditions of overflow will be analyzed, which are applicable when the dam is used to control water flow. Conditions which may lead to instability will be investigated theoretically and experimentally. The results of this study will improve our understanding of the dynamic behavior of inflatable dams, and will be useful in the prevention of future failures and in the wider application of this economical type of structure.//

Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1990-12-01
Budget End
1993-05-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
$134,253
Indirect Cost
City
Blacksburg
State
VA
Country
United States
Zip Code
24061