Concrete arch dams are critical structures, the failure of which would lead to catastrophic effects on a regional scale. Considering the uncertainty characteristics of earthquake and the self-adjustment of inner force of arch dams, it’s necessary to investigate the seismic performance index of arch dam for holistically evaluating the seismic safety of arch dam-foundation system subjected to high intensity seismic excitations. By considering the contraction joints movement and concrete material nonlinearity, a series of dynamic response-history analyses of arch dam were carried out under increasing levels of earthquakes. Based on these analyses, the performance index of crest deformation is recommended for the seismic safety assessment of arch dam. And several performance stages of seismic response including the opening of contraction joints and the distribution of concrete damage are also investigated.
