Wave‐Induced Pore Pressures in Submerged Sand Layer

Abstract

Measured wave induced pore pressures in a model sand layer are presented. The measured pressures vary with the wave height and period, sand layer thickness, and sand density. For short‐period waves, measured pressures compare well with theoretical (2nd order wave theory) pressures on the surface of the sand layer. Measured pressures are greater than theoretical when the model wave period is greater than 1.7 seconds. Pressures within a sand layer decrease more rapidly with depth than predicted by published theories. A time lag between sinusoidal pressure variations within the sand layer was measured during the laboratory study. This time lag, if it occurs in the prototype, may cause bottom instability during the long‐period (storm) waves.