Hydrodynamic performance of H-shaped floating breakwater in the presence of a partially reflecting seawall

Abstract

The present study examines the hydrodynamic interaction of surface gravity waves with freely floating H-shaped porous structure situated close to a partially reflecting seawall and without seawall using Multi-Domain Boundary Element Method (MDBEM). The study is performed to examine the performance of the H-shaped floating breakwater for sway, heave, and roll motion, as well as the effects of a seawall on the hydrodynamic parameters associated with the floating body. The horizontal wave force, added mass, radiation damping coefficients, and the horizontal, vertical, and moment acting on the floating structure are analysed under different structural configurations. The numerical model developed using MDBEM approach is validated using the results available in the literature. The primary findings demonstrate that reducing the structural moments and added mass and wave force coefficients, and constructing a seawall adjacent to the breakwater, greatly enhances performance in deep water. The reflection coefficient by the seawall greatly impact damping in shallow water depth but have minimal effect in deep water region, indicating that water depth significantly impacts the wave transformation. The present study provides important insights for developing marine infrastructure in various coastal and offshore environments by demonstrating the potential for customised engineering solutions to reduce wave impacts successfully. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.