WAVE FLUME EXPERIMENT ON WAVE RESPONSE OF A RECTANGLE BLOCK UNDER DIFFERENT SEABED CHARACTERISTICS

Abstract

 This study investigated wave response for a rectangle block under different seabed characteristics in a 1g field test. On sandy soil, wave induced horizontal acceleration response was generated in the block in the offshore direction. As a result of a simplified constant loading test, it was understood that block acceleration response is obtained due to actions of horizontal wave force in the offshore direction and rolling moment in the offshore direction. Scouring around the block did not affect acceleration response. Analysis of external force on the block showed uplift force generated by horizontal wave force in the offshore direction. At the same time, seabed bearing capacity decreased because excess pore water pressure in the seabed increased due to wave action. On sandy soil, therefore, a block may move easily in the offshore direction due to the action of wave force.