Crest Level Assessment of coastal Structures by full scale monitoring, neural network prediction and Hazard analysis on permissible wave overtopping

Photo courtesy of WCCP/Eurotunnel Developments Ltd.

It has been proven that wave run-up is underestimated by small scale model tests due to scale effects. Therefore, there is a strong suspicion that wave overtopping will be underpredicted too. Full scale measurements on wave overtopping will be carried out at four sites. One site will concentrate on the effect of long waves on shallow water. Full scale measurement results are simulated by small scale and numerical modelling to quantify and to explain suspected scale effects. As no generic prediction method for crest level assessment exists, this project will create one. All existing data on wave overtopping will be collected and supplemented with the full scale data and the "white spot" data gathered in this project. Information on permissible levels of wave overtopping is poor and vague. A hazard analysis (including socio-economic effects) will give a sound answer to the question of safety of pedestrians, vehicles, buildings, ...

A research project supported by the European Commission under EESD within the Fifth Framework Programme. Contract n° : EVK3-CT-2001-00058

Coordinator : Prof. Dr. ir. Julien De Rouck

Scientific Officer: Dr. Hartmut Barth