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Numerical simulation of wave propagation over vegetated platform

A numerical model for wave propagation over a vegetated floating platform is established using the Navier–Stokes(NS) equations with the volume of fluid (VOF) method and RNG k–ε turbulence. The model is based on FLUENT, an NS solver, and the effect of vegetation is simulated by adding the drag force of vegetation in the flow momentum equations and turbulence model through the User Defined Functions (UDF).The model has been validated by simulating unidirectional flows through suspended and emergent canopies as well as the interaction of monochromatic waves with submerged and emergent vegetation. Numerical experiments using this validated three-dimensional (3D) model are being carried out to investigate regular and irregular waves propagating over vegetated and non-vegetated floating platform with different configurations. The effects of vegetation on forces acting on the floating platform, wave transmission and the flow field are analyzed by comparing with the non-vegetated cases. The effectiveness of vegetated floating breakwaters for shore protection will be discussed based on the findings from the numerical experiments.

Author(s):

Xuebin Chen    
Department of Applied Mechanics and Engineering, School of Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China; Center for Computation & Technology, Louisiana State University, USA
China

Qin Jim Chen    
Center for Computation & Technology, Louisiana State University, USA; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Louisiana State University, USA
United States

Jiemin Zhan    
Department of Applied Mechanics and Engineering, School of Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
China