An experimental study on wave transmission by engineered plain and enhanced oyster reefs

Abstract

This study examines the interaction between random waves and an oyster reef, both in its plain state and when enhanced by energy dissipating macro-roughness. The investigation was carried out using wave flume experiments, incorporating different water levels and wave conditions. The primary focus of the study revolves around two key parameters: freeboard and wave steepness. Additionally, the study explores the influence of macro-roughness arrangement on the wave energy transmission. Empirical relationships were established to determine the wave transmission coefficient for both the plain reef and the reef enhanced by macro-roughness. These relationships highlight the significance of the relative freeboard and wave steepness for the plain oyster reef. Moreover, a correction factor was introduced to account for the impact of macro-roughness configuration on the wave transmission coefficient. The findings of this study suggest that the incorporation of macro-roughness can effectively attenuate wave energy through dissipation and reflection, thereby serving as an additional measure for wave energy mitigation through nature-based solutions.