Assessment of Vertical Deformation of the Atatürk Dam Using Geodetic Observations

Abstract

AbstractThe Ataturk Dam in Turkey, constructed on the Firat River, is one of the world’s largest rockfill embankment dams. It was built to harvest and conserve water and to serve crucial agricultural, social-economic, recreational, and other activities in the Harran region. In this study, geodetic techniques were exploited to assess possible deformations of the embankment structure and add insight on critical dam safety. The geodetic approach included differential, trigonometric, and global positioning system (GPS) leveling observation campaigns over a period of 6.5 years from May 2006 through November 2012. The geodetic control network included 32 reference points and approximately 200 object points located on the surface of the embankment structure. The primary object points were stable concrete platforms embedded on the compacted rock surface, whereas the secondary object points were mounted directly to the compacted rock. All object points were equipped with forced centering mechanisms to support eith...