Numerical Modelling and Dimensioning of Flexible Debris Flow Barriers

• Research unit: INNOSUISSE
• Project number: 7493.2;5 EPRP-IW

Short description (German)

Numerical Modelling and Dimensioning of Flexible Debris Flow Barriers

Short description (English)

Numerical Modelling and Dimensioning of Flexible Debris Flow Barriers

Abstract (English)

The research project leads to a numerical simulation tool that models the interaction between a debris flow and a flexible protection barrier. The investigated barriers consist of cables, brake elements and ring nets attached to the cables. They will allow very cost-effective and lightweight installations. Similar types of barriers are also used against rockfalls. But compared to this application with a well-known load due to the rigid behaviour of the rock, the loads submitted by a debris flow are quite unknown, neither in Switzerland nor worldwide. An extensive experimental programme with full-size and laboratory dynamic tests delivers the needed information for proper simulation models