Switzerland, 2011-2013
The concrete of the dam, located at an altitude of 2500 m, underwent a chemical reaction causing swelling due to an aggregate–alkali reaction. As a result, deformation occurred, with structural cracks appearing in the curved part of the dam, causing the upper part to partially separate from the lower part. The rehabilitation project involved the installation of permanent anchors in the top part of the dam to ensure safety in the event of earthquakes. The site was accessible (for both personnel and equipment) only by cable car, while the anchors were transported to the site by helicopter
- 62 vertical anchor rods (2000 m of drillholes)
- Grouting of ninety 50-mm Gewi bars (1700 m of drillholes)
- Drilling of 60 drainage holes (600 m)
- Replacement of 400 m2 of concrete on the dam face
- Installation of anchors at the top of the dam and permanent anchors on the right bank to ensure seismic safety.
- Relaxation of stress due to swelling by cutting vertical slots in the dam.
- Modification of the static stress of the curved part of the gravity dam.
- Readjustment of the spillway.
- Consolidation of the concrete on the downstream face (sprayed concrete).
- Drilling of drainage holes.
- Renovation and maintenance of equipment.