Roughness coefficient of polyurethane-bonded revetment

Abstract

This article analyzed the roughness coefficient of polyurethane-bonded revetment (PBR) by laboratory testing. A wave basin was constructed, with a regular wave generator installed. Three types of revetment were constructed at the same time in the wave basin. Scales were painted on the revetments. Video cameras were installed to record the wave run-up. Measurments of wave height and wave period during the tests were not necessary, since a run-up estimation was entirely based on a linear relationship. The PBR’s roughness coefficient could be interpolated from those of rock and concrete revetments. Three revetment slopes were tested. The roughness coefficient of the PBR was found to be in the range of 0.632-0.674, with a standard deviation of 0.042-0.053. Following this identification of the roughness coefficient of PBR, coastal engineers can now design revetment crest elevations with confidence.