Validation of a three-dimensional depth-semi-averaged model

Abstract

The present work completes the validation of the depth-semi-averaged model defined in Antuono et al. [“A depth semi-averaged model for coastal dynamics,” Phys. Fluids 29, 056603 (2017)] providing a numerical implementation in three spatial dimensions. In particular, the model is aimed at describing a wide variety of phenomena typical of the coastal region, as for example nonlinear interaction between waves and the bottom bathymetry (diffraction/refraction phenomena), dispersion effects, and beach inundation. To this purpose, the proposed scheme is tested against benchmark experimental data available in the literature for wave propagation problems in both intermediate and shallow water conditions. A final simulation is carried out by considering a tsunami wave running over a prototype bathymetry resembling a bay-promontory coastline. Different widths of the bay have been considered, describing their influence on the run-up dynamics.