New reinforcing method for improving the bearing capacity of breakwater foundation against earthquake and tsunami

This paper deals with development of an effective reinforcement technology for breakwater foundation which provides resiliency to breakwater against earthquake. The technique involves use of steel sheet piles and gabion type mound (gravel wrapped up in steel wired mesh) in the foundation of breakwater as a reinforcing measure, which is effective in preventing subsidence and horizontal displacement of breakwater. A series of shaking table test were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed technique under earthquake loadings. The results of this study reveal the advantages of resilient breakwater in reducing the damage to breakwater foundation brought by destructive earthquake.