Extreme Hydrodynamic Loading on Near-Shore Structures

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to investigate and quantify the impact of extreme hydrodynamic forces, similar to those generated by tsunami-induced inundation, on structural elements. As part of a comprehensive experimental program and analytical study, pressures, base shear forces, and base overturning moments generated by hydraulic bores on structural models of various shapes were studied. In addition, the impact force induced by waterborne wooden debris of different shapes and masses on the structural models was also investigated. Two structural models, one with circular and the other with square cross-section, were installed individually downstream of a dam-break wave in a high-discharge flume. Three impounding water heights (550, 850 and 1150 mm) were used to produce dam-break waves, which have been shown to be analogous to tsunami-induced coastal inundation in the form of highly turbulent hydraulic bores. Time-history responses of the structural models were recorded, including: pressures, base shear forces, base overturning moments, lateral displacements, and accelerations. In addition, the flow depth-time histories were recorded at various locations along the length of the flume. Regular and high-speed video cameras were used to monitor the bore-structure interaction. The effect of initial flume bed condition (“wet” or “dry” bed) on the forces and pressures exerted on the structural models were also investigated. Moreover, the vertical distribution of pressure around the models was captured. Simple low-height walls with various geometries were installed upstream from the structural models to investigate their efficiency as tsunami mitigation measures. The experimentally recorded data were compared with those estimated from currently available formulations. The results and analysis of the simulated tsunami-induced bore presented in this study will be of significant use to better estimate forces exerted on structures by tsunami-induced turbulent bores. It is expected that this work will contribute to the new ASCE7 Chapter 6 - Tsunami Loads and Effects in which two of this author’s academic supervisors, Drs. Ioan Nistor and Dan Palermo, are members.