Large-scale wave flume experiments for modeling coastal seabed under solitary waves

This paper summarizes findings from free-field large-scale wave flume experiments focused on the response of pore water pressure in sandy soils subjected to solitary wave action. Tests were performed using wave heights of 60 cm and 110 cm, while maintaining a consistent still water level of 2 m from the flume bottom. Twelve pore pressure transducers were strategically installed at varying depths and positions - both 1 m offset from and directly beneath the central sand trench - to monitor the evolution of pressure within the soil. The study emphasizes the role of seepage and the potential buildup of excess pore water pressure that may threaten soil stability. Under free-field conditions, the data indicated that neither the vertical seepage forces nor the accumulated excess pore pressures reached critical levels necessary to initiate failure, indicating that the sandy seabed exhibited resilience against seepage-driven instability, even under the stronger solitary wave condition.