RECESSION BY RANDOM WAVES: INSIGHTS FROM PHYSICAL MODELING OF CONSOLIDATED SANDY BLUFF

Coastal bluffs are dynamic landforms that recede due to various physical processes (Kamphuis, 1990). Understanding these processes is essential for effective bluff erosion management. This research investigates the physical mechanisms governing sandy bluff recession under random waves and fluctuating water levels. Wave action generates hydraulic pressures on the bluff, removing sediment and undermining stability. Toe erosion from wave impact causes undercutting and basal failures. Higher water levels increase hydraulic loading and erosion, while lower levels expose the bluff to more wave action (Buckler and Winters, 1983; Carter et al., 1987). Soil properties significantly affect the erosion response (Arabi and Farhadzadeh, 2019; Arabi and Farhadzadeh, 2022; Farhadzadeh et al., 2022). This paper presents an experimental study of a compacted sandy beach-bluff under random wave actions. The evolution of the bluff profile was monitored along with flow, porewater pressure, and moisture content. The findings provide insight into the complex interactions governing bluff recession.