Numerical analysis of breaking wave impact on a wall using pressure-impulse theory

Breaking waves produce large pressures during their impact on the coastal structureswhich may cause structural instability problems. These short-lived pressures are calledimpact pressures. In estimating the impact pressure distribution on the wall, manytheoretical and experimental works have been conducted. The present study is based onthe pressure-impulse theory. The governing equation of pressure-impulse is solved usingthe finite element method. The present numerical model is capable to analyze waveimpact on an inclined seawall placed on a sloping bed. The efficiency of model isdemonstrated by its good agreement with available analytical solution for the case ofwave impact on a vertical wall constructed on the horizontal bed.