Abstract: At present, the safety assessment method of dyke engineering is qualitative, and there are many factors, both quantitative and non-quantitative, that affect the safety of dykes. Because of the uncertainty and fuzziness of the indicators, the final result of the safety assessment of dyke is uncertain and random. In order to establish a quantitative safety assessment system for dyke, we build a safety assessment model for seepage flow in dyke foundation using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) in which the main controlling indicators are given weight by subjective experiences of experts. The model is validated by using specific engineering examples. Consistency between calculation result and engineering practice demonstrates that the presented quantitative safety assessment model based on AHP is accurate and operable. It proves that the safety evaluation system of dyke engineering established by AHP is accurate and operable.

Key words: dyke, foundation seepage, AHP, main controlling factor, quantitative safety assessment system