Regarding the load factor for fluid loads
Ref. ACI 318-11 9.2.4 and 9.2.1 Eq. (9-1)
U = 1.4F
This factor seems too high for deeply submerged structures or for retaining structures whose walls are too short to keep out 40% higher water.
For example, if I am designing a concrete immersed...
thread256-285729
Better late than never:
On one of our projects in east New Orleans, with a positive connection (shear keys welded to the piles) between underwater concrete seal and piles, a 5-foot concrete seal had no problem resisting at least a 33-foot head.
