Seismic coefficients adopted in the design of Chilean tailings dams

Abstract

The design of tailings dams considers a pseudostatic stability analysis using the limit equilibrium method, where inertial effects are captured by forces proportional to the weight of the sliding mass and seismic coefficients. This study compiles and analyzes a database of horizontal seismic coefficients (k_h) adopted in the design of 125 tailings dams built in Chile from 1983 to 2022. The database also considers geometric, seismic, and geotechnical information that influences the factors of safety obtained in slope stability analyses. This study reviews 11 methods adopted for the estimation of k_h and recommends a range of values for design earthquakes.