Performance and Wave Attenuation of Stepped-Type Floating Breakwater Under Influence of Mooring Stiffness for Tropical Climate

Abstract The stepped-type floating breakwater (FB) for coastal protection applications is effective in improving wave dissipation with enhanced stability under wave action. This study investigates the performance and wave attenuation characteristics of stepped-type FB in tropical climates, focusing on the impact of mooring stiffness configurations under regular and irregular wave conditions. The research aims to assess how varying mooring line stiffness configurations affect the hydrodynamic behavior of floating breakwaters when implemented for coastal protection in tropical climates. By analyzing the motion response of each FB design and measuring wave elevation profiles around the structures, this study seeks to understand the optimal mooring stiffness that enhances the wave energy dissipation and motion of the FB. Numerical simulations are conducted to evaluate the influence of wave frequencies, wave directions and types of mooring systems on wave reduction and FB motion. The findings provide insights into the ideal mooring setup for effective wave attenuation in coastal applications, addressing the unique challenges posed by tropical climates. Results from this research are expected to guide design improvements in sustainable coastal protection solutions for the tropical climate that reduce environmental impact and enhance resilience against wave forces.