Work

Computational fluid dynamics investigation of wave interactions with damaged coastal cliffs

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Numerous studies have documented that increasingly intense weather and climate events are amplifying marine wave activity. However, the complex links between oceanic storms and the coastal environment require further investigation to assess risk and develop solutions to minimize damage. Although past work has focused on various types of coastal structures, this study investigates the impact of extreme waves on a Mediterranean Sea cliff containing cultural heritage sites. Advanced two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics models were developed for a range of solitary wave heights and cliff geometries. Unlike previous studies, the work herein considers a key natural feature, namely the base notch, caused by progressive cliff damage under the wave action. Three cliff types are considered: an undamaged cliff, a damaged cliff with a submerged notch, and one with a partially submerged notch. The hydrodynamic interaction of waves with the cliff is investigated both qualitatively and quantitatively, focusing on flow patterns, wave run up and cliff exposure. The CFD results reveal that partial damage, i.e., a notch, generally reduces the maximum wave run-up but increases the water retention time on the cliff, especially in the submerged notch case. For the largest wave, the submerged notch reduces maximum run-up by up to 15% but increases retention time by 70%, raising the probability of internal weakening. Additionally, the notch can amplify reflected horizontal velocity by up to 1000 times, causing flow patterns that could alter the dominant damage mechanism. Overall, the study highlights cliff geometry as a critical factor in wave vulnerability.

Source: Results in Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2026.109015

Authors: Raouf Sobhani, Federico Feliziani, Gian Marco Marmoni, Salvatore Martino, Denis Istrati

Institutions: National Technical University of Athens, Sapienza University of Rome, Technische Universität Braunschweig

Language: English

Topic: Coastal and Marine Dynamics

Subfield: Earth-Surface Processes

Field: Earth and Planetary Sciences

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,940