Flume experiments on flow analysis and energy reduction through a compound tsunami mitigation system with a seaward embankment and landward vegetation over a mound

Abstract

As a countermeasure against tsunami inundation, the present study conducted a series of laboratory experiments using a compound mitigation system in which a seaward embankment (E) followed by landward coastal vegetation (V) over a mound (M) (EMV) was investigated in super-critical flow conditions. The changes of flow around the mitigation system and energy reduction were clarified under varying conditions of mound height and vegetation density. Cases of an embankment followed by only a mound (EMNV) were also considered for comparison. Experimental results showed that three basic types of flow structures were observed within the mitigation system in EMV cases. A water cushion was created within the mitigation system mainly due to the combined effects of the mound and vegetation. It significantly reduced the maximum total energy in EMV cases by approximately 41%−66%, whereas in EMNV cases, the maximum energy reduction was found to be 23%−65%. Increments in both mound height and vegetation density increased the intensity of the water cushion within the mitigation system by offering more drag and reflecting the flow, and hence, significantly reduced the energy of the flow.