A simplified procedure to assess the dynamic stability of a caisson breakwater

Abstract

The paper describes a simplified method of analysis used to evaluate the stability of a caisson breakwater to sea wave actions. An intensive laboratory program was performed in order to evaluate the static and dynamic characteristics of the foundation soil. Anisotropic and isotropic consolidated cyclic triaxial tests and cyclic simple shear tests were used to define the cyclic interaction diagram for the foundation soil. The possibility of foundation cyclic mobility due to wave loading and their effect on the breakwater stability was examined combining the cyclic interaction diagram with the results of finite element analysis. The potential reduction in soil strength is then incorporated into a conventional stability analysis. The procedure is illustrated by a specific application to a caisson breakwater that is part of the extension works of the Barcelona Harbour.