Wave overtopping pressures and spatial distribution behind rubble mound breakwaters

Currently, there is no widely accepted method to determine the pressure profiles induced by wave overtopping behind the crest of a breakwater other than physical modelling. In this experimental study, the spatial distribution of overtopping pressures on a vertical structure is investigated at various distances behind a rubble mound breakwater with a crown wall. A 2D physical modelling study in presented in an attempt to derive a practical method for estimating these overtopping pressures. The variability of overtopping wave pressures behind the crest of a breakwater is also discussed. Rule of thumb guidelines are proposed which will contribute to better concept and schematic structural designs in advance of physical model testing.