Numerical Analysis of Debris Impact Forces and Its Environmental Repercussions Using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics

Debris flow is a destructive event occurring in elevated terrains, causing significant damage to the affected areas. It results in casualties and significant harm to the environment and society. Hence, a comprehensive evaluation is essential in order to prevent, mitigate, and increase knowledge of the consequences of debris flows. This paper focuses on evaluating the impact of the deposition board. The methodology involved a simulation of two cases to demonstrate the debris flow based on the steepness of the flume slope at 25° angles with full and half openings at the gate. The limestone particles with a total volume of 1 × 103 m3 acted as debris and were released with water from the tank to the deposition board with an area of 1 m2. The force of particle distribution from the flume that hit the building block on the deposition board was determined. Based on the numerical results, the maximum force was about 55.2 N and 47.3 N for each fully open and half open gate, respectively. In actual situations, the maximum impact force (5520 N) can be 100 times greater compared to model values (55.2 N). Research indicates that pressures over 100 kPa cause damage to reinforced concrete structures. Debris flow can pose a substantial risk to the impacted area in real-life scenarios. This study is valuable for conducting risk assessments, creating guidelines, and reducing the likelihood of debris flows in high-risk areas.