Sustainable Solution for Seawall Protection against Tsunami-Induced Damage

Abstract

To protect coastal structures from the damage caused by the impact force of a tsunami, a new concept of using waste tires behind such structures is introduced in this paper. A physical model for tsunami impact force simulation was developed to evaluate the reduction effect of tsunami impact force by the tire structures. Model tests also were performed to evaluate the stiffness of tire structures. From an esthetic point of view, cultivation of suitable plants inside the tires is also proposed. Field tests on planting trees that can grow in saline soil conditions were performed to see whether such a structure can preserve the greenery of the area. Results show that the tsunami impact force could be reduced considerably by placing filled tires (with a suitable material) behind seawalls, and this technique can protect the structures from the tsunami impact force and the resulting scouring. The greening effect could be maintained by the appropriate selection of the shrubs and trees planted inside the tires, making it one of the most cost-effective methods for recycling waste tires.