Experimental analysis of a submerged rubble mound breakwater in a 2D flume: Advancing sustainable development goals through innovative coastal engineering solutions

Abstract

This study investigates submerged rubble mound breakwaters as an eco-friendly alternative for coastal protection. The purpose of this research is to experimentally analyze the effectiveness of different core configurations of submerged rubble mound breakwaters in dissipating wave energy and reducing coastal erosion. The study utilized a 2D wave flume to simulate coastal wave conditions, testing various breakwater models reinforced with geotextiles, geotubes, and without additional reinforcement. The experimental results demonstrate that submerged rubble mound breakwaters can significantly attenuate wave energy, with reinforced models showing enhanced structural stability and reduced material displacement. The findings suggest that incorporating geotextile or geotube materials improves the performance of the breakwaters, particularly in high-energy wave conditions. This research aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), providing valuable insights for sustainable coastal management. These findings support the development of more resilient coastal defenses that protect against wave-induced damage while maintaining ecological integrity.