Investigations of wave reflection and transmission through gabion structures

Abstract

This paper presents results from investigations carried out on the hydraulic performance of gabion structures, with respect to wave energy reflection and transmission processes. The focus of the study was to investigate the wave reflection and transmission characteristics, which are important in designing coastal structures with respect to energy dissipation. The paper presents the results of three hydraulic model investigations on vertical gabion structures. The experiments were designed to obtain detailed information of transmission and reflection characteristics of the structures thereby providing a complete profile of wave energy dissipation along the structures. The experimental programmes were conducted using large physical models to minimize scale effects. The results are discussed in the context of economical design, improved hydraulic performance and long term stability.