Dynamic analysis of a typical three-dimensional concrete faced rockfill dam is reported. Three components of the Loma Prieta (Gilroy 1 station) earthquake displacement time history are used as input excitation. The dam is considered to be located in a prismatic canyon with trapezoidal cross-section. A new approach based on scaled boundary finite element method is used to obtain scattered motion along canyon. Non-linear model is used for rockfill material, and contact element with Coulomb friction law is utilised at the dam body and concrete slab interface. Results of the analysis indicate that large horizontal axial (compressive or tension) forces can be induced in the face slab due to out-of-phase motion of the abutments.

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