EFFECTIVENESS OF THE NET BUFFER METHOD AS PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE AND RECURRENCE PREVENSION MEASURES AGAINST COASTAL INTERNAL EROSION AND COLLAPSE

Abstract

 The Net Buffer Method substantially suppresses the risks of internal erosion and collapse behind seawalls and quaywalls by caisson joint wave reduction. In this study, a six-year follow-up study after the application of the Net Buffer Method to three Major Ports and Strategic International Ports in Japan was conducted, involving three typhoon events. The results of the field surveys, observations, and the in-situ sampling and tests demonstrate the effectiveness of the Net Buffer Method as preventive maintenance and recurrence prevention measures against coastal internal erosion and collapse. Notably, the Net Buffer Method has proven itself effective in preventing collapse under multiple strong earthquake motions as well as severe wave conditions than those that led to collapse in the past.