Abstract: The behavior of transverse and induced joints in Shapai arch dam under the Wenchuan earthquake
is investigated with a contact nonlinear model based on the contact force method, and the effect of radiation
damping in foundation is included. Several schemes combining transverse and induced joints of different
strengths are computed and compared. A comprehensive analysis on three features of the joints on the
upstream crest, i.e. opening duration, maximum opening and its distribution provides an interpretation on the
seismic responses of transverse and induced joints in this arch dam.