Application of dye Tracing Technique in Dam Leakage remediation (Case Study: Zemkan Dam, Kermanshah)

Document Type : Research paper

Authors

1 PhD student of hydrogeology, Department of Geology, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Shahid Chamran University, Ahvaz, Iran.

2 Professor, Department of Rangeland and Watershed Management, Faculty of Agriculture, Ilam University, Ilam, Iran.

Abstract

Following the impoundment of the Zemkan Dam, signs of water leakage were observed in the bay area within the reservoir, located on the northern side of the dam. This leakage manifested downstream as new springs, and previously existing small springs in the region became more water-rich, with some turning sulfuric, indicating the discharge of seepage water from the dam through these sources. Upon observing the leakage, dam impoundment was halted at an elevation of 1527 meters. To identify the leakage pathways and flow routes, as well as to understand the flow regime (diffuse or conduit flow) and the extent of karst development, a tracer test was conducted on the left abutment. In this operation, 10 kg of fluorescent dye (Uranine) was injected into the Tinj injection borehole, located at the normal water level above the area where water discharge sounds had previously been heard and a sinkhole had subsequently formed. The tracer was detected in several boreholes (T1, T2, T3, and T5) and in downstream springs (leakage springs 1 to 18 on the left flank and seven springs on the right bank of the river), as well as in Nazari Spring. The tracer velocity indicated conduit-type (undeveloped) flow in this region. A sealing measure was proposed to prevent further water leakage. The optimal option for sealing involves constructing a grout curtain from the crest of the limestone in the Tale Zang Formation at the head of the northern bay of the dam to the Tale Zang Formation within the valley.

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References

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Hydrogeology
Volume 10, Issue 1
August 2025
Pages 1-11

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