Numerical modeling of breaking wave impact pressure on a vertical wall

Breaking waves impart higher impact pressures on coastal structures than non-breaking waves. An estimation of breaking wave impact pressures on a vertical wall is important for its structural stability since such type of structures are frequently subjected to breaking wave impact. In the present study, the breaking wave impact on a vertical wall has been theoretically modelled using the pressure impulse theory. The pressure impulse formulation governed by the Laplace equation is solved numerically using finite element method. Numerical prediction of plunging wave impact pressures using measured pressure rise-fall time has been found to compare well with earlier experimental measurements. The maximum impact pressure occurs slightly above the still water level.