Numerical Assessment of Tsunami-Structure Interaction (Guerrero, Mexico)

Abstract

Palemon-Arcos, L.; Torres-Freyermuth, A.; Gutierrez-Can, Y.; Gomez-Arredondo, C.M.; Bojorquez-Mora, E.; Pintado-Patino, J.C., and Hernandez-Hernandez, M.-A., 2020. Numerical assessment of tsunami-structure interaction (Guerrero, Mexico). Journal of Coastal Research, 36(6), 1302–1312. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208.A numerical modelling framework for the study of tsunami-structure interaction is presented. In this work, a Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equation nonlinear wave transformation numerical model is coupled to a structural model to investigate wave-structure stability and functionality. Different tsunami breaking types interacting with an existing sheet-pile quay wall located at the coast of Guerrero (Mexico) were considered for two structure conditions (newly built and deteriorated). The depth- and temporal-dependent pressure field on the protective wall was employed to determine the structural response. Furthermore, the numerical framework allowed the overtopping volumes to be quantified. Numerical results show that structural failure under tsunami waves is sensitive to both the breaking type and the degree of deterioration of concrete and steel. Numerical results also suggest that the quasi-dynamic approach written in the guideline codes for tsunami design is not suitable. Hence, a nonhydrostatic approach is required for proper design of coastal protection structures exposed to tsunami loads.