Comprehensive Evaluation Method for the Safety State of RCC Dams Based on Interval Number Theory

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

1. Some of the image format settings in the article are not appropriate. For example, the position of Figure 1 is centered, and the position of Figure 2 is left. It is recommended that the layout be unified. As another example, the name of the picture in Figure 2 is not aligned with the picture. Recommended check format.

2. The layout of the article is confusing, such as line 245 and line 254 are not aligned. The header of table 1 is separated from the table, and it is recommended to check the whole article.

3. In line 252-254, the relationship between the upper and lower limits of the interval is introduced, but it is not explained clearly in figure 2. The horizontal and vertical coordinates of the two intervals are both different. It is recommended to express the size relationship clearly and explain what the horizontal and vertical coordinates represent respectively.

4. Some formulas in the article do not explain clearly what each variable represents, such as formula 12, it is recommended to check and add.

5. Figure 5 can not clearly see the monitoring layout of the dam，it is recommended to switch to a simpler and clearer picture.

6. In line 179-182, the evaluation indexes such as deformation, seepage, stress and stability are studied, what is the basis for selecting these indexes？ whether there are other indexes？ and if so, where is the importance compared with other indexes？

7. In line 203-208, what is the difference between q_a and q_d ? and is there an error?  Please check or explain.

8. In line 229-231, what is the basis for using cohesion and friction coefficient to describe stability, and are there relevant formulas or other variables? Please explain the reason.

9. In line 287, what are the evaluation criteria for obtaining indicators of expert importance?  Please explain in detail.

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

This manuscript presents a comprehensive evaluation method for the safety state of roller compacted concrete (RCC) dams. Overall, this manuscript is very well written and easy to follow. The topic fits the scope of this special issue very well. Given the importance of dam safety monitoring and the novelty of this study, I would recommend publication of this manuscript. However, there are several minor points that need to be addressed in the revisions. See detailed comments below:

 

1. On page 4, line 6, it is mentioned that "the construction interfaces of RCC dams make them different from other types of dams". Please include some more detail on how this comprehensive assessment differs from other dams.

 

2. The indicator system established in Section 2 looks great. Considering that this is established for the characteristics of RCC dams, please add more guided discussion in this area.

 

3. In the Section 3, the method of combining subjective and objective weights is good. However, the reasons for your choice should be made clear. Why is the combination approach more appropriate? What are the advantages?

 

4. On page 10, line 12, the difference in uncertainty reflected in the combined method and interval number theory is not clear. Please clarify!

Overall, the language looks fine! 

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx