3D SPH Simulation of large waves mitigation with a dike

The interaction between a large wave and a coastal structure is studied with a three-dimensional (3D) Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) model. The role of protecting barriers (dikes and seawalls) to mitigate the force and moment exerted on the structure is analyzed in terms of the dike height and the distance from the dike to the structure. The existence of different propagation modes (different ways for the water to surpass the protection barrier) has been identified. In general, the flow is split into two parts: one overtopping the barrier and the other one flowing around it. The interaction between both the parts of the fluid is shown to be responsible of the force and moment exerted on the coastal structure.