Author(s): Diana De Padova; Mouldi Ben Meftah; Francesca De Serio; Michele Mossa

Linked Author(s): Diana De Padova, Mouldi Ben Meftah, Francesca De Serio, Michele Mossa

Keywords: Coastal protection; Vegetation; Theoretical model; Numerical model; Laboratory experiments

Abstract: This study addresses wave attenuation by vegetation and vegetation-inspired structures, a key topic in eco- engineering given the declining extent of mangrove ecosystems, natural coastal defenses that dissipate wave energy and enhance sediment deposition. To support hybrid ecological–engineering interventions employing cylindrical elements to promote mangrove recovery, a theoretical model is developed to predict solitary-wave attenuation by arrays of emergent or submerged cylinders. The model is validated t hrough DualSPHysics numerical simulations across multiple array configurations and further assessed using laboratory experiments conducted for solitary waves in the presence of a background current. Results show a good agreement between theoretical predictions, numerical outcomes, and laboratory measurements, confirming the model's reliability for coastal protection and restoration applications.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.64697/iahr.proc.ise2026.abs.223

Year: 2026