Opportunity to participate

Rationale

Bound long waves, swell and phenomena such as seiches are well known surface wave related features, originating from wind induced wave fields. All have been subject of research, in particular with regard to their appearance on sandy coasts and related sediment transport capacities. Reflection of bound long waves on a sloping coastline apparently has got most of the in situ attention while related sediment transport research mainly has been limited to laboratory conditions. One of the main reasons for this has to do with the technical specifications and consequent limitations of the available monitoring equipment, which in general consists of (a combination of) wave buoys and waterlevel sensors. A given due to which an important segment of the energy content remains undetected. 

In recent years more sophisticated and substantially more cost effective monitoring equipment has come to market. Still little has been done to bridge the knowledge gaps. For reason for instance as I have set out in earlier posts such as “The Dutch Delta-safe Dilemma” (  https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/dutch-delta-safe-dilemma-marco-pluijm/ ) or in a broader sense “Why actual coastal flood risks are already higher than currently accounted for” ( https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/why-actual-coastal-flood-risks-already-higher-than-currently-pluijm/ ). 

Whatever the reason, what’s known to basically most of the people involved, is that by keep on turning a blind eye towards this issue, traditional flood safety risk assessments are no longer trustworthy. Which can clearly be derived from various recent events from around the globe. And while in the Netherlands not yet resulted in a major flood event, proof is there that for instance one of their main flood defences, the Maeslantkering, isn’t geared up to early warning and response towards “hidden energy” content. 

Fortunately up to a certain extend until now “just” resulting in minor inundation in the hinterland, but by no means a guarantee that much more serious events won’t happen. The knowledge, required experience as well as the system itself are just not sufficiently equipped to guarantee the desired safety levels. Not only in the Maeslantkering protected region but also with regard to the planning and design of traditional sea defences along most of the Dutch coast.

Approach

Talking bound long waves, swell, seiches and hidden components, as outlined, big unknown is the ratio in energy content contributors which all together add up to their visible appearance. While hidden “sneaky” components remain undetected. Which is a very unfortunate and undesirable condition. 

Based on adequate and appropriate data collection campaigns, analyses and factual outcome assessments around the globe, including the Netherlands, it is concluded that for some time already there is a clear shift in the long wave energy content, intensity and frequency of occurrence. Which changes are attributed to climate change in terms of increase in depression depth, shifting patterns and paths. 

Most if not all of these data are proprietary as they are gathered as part of project related survey and monitoring campaigns and are therefore not available in the public domain. 

In order to increase the required in-depth insight and understanding, there is a dire need for proper surveys and monitoring.  For which the right monitoring equipment needs to be installed and surveys conducted over sufficient time spans, not just project related spot assessments during summertime.

Adequate instrumentation in the sense of sets of differential pressure sensors per location with relevant sampling frequencies set up for the phenomena to detect, record and analyse.  Due to the basic simplicity of the instruments to apply, such set up and operations can be relative simple, low budget and therefore very cost effective. There is no need for development of any additional tools nor software. 

Basically all hard- and software ingredients are readily available and suitable potential test sites known. It is just a matter of commitment, logistics and budget. 

Benefits of a Joint Industry Project

Budget for the above scope, initial set up and tests has already been secured. Also permitting is not seen as a bottleneck. The advantage of this approach is that one can get this going and do what needs to get done by just doing it. 

A disadvantage of such an almost single handed approach is that others do not have access to what is achieved nor the opportunity to provide input with regard to relevant factors that are not covered (yet). 

Reason why the concept of a Joint Industry Project (JIP) might be an alternative for a broader and therefore more favourable approach. More parties get access to what’s proposed, done and achieved. Plus that the scope as such can be extended where desired or maybe even necessary. 

The concept of a JIP as such is assumed to be known to those who might want to consider to participate in this “Sneaky Wave” JIP-initiative. 

In case one is cordially invited to let us know by means of your expression of interest (EoI). On the basis of which we’ll come back to you to discuss potential synergy and path forward. 

Expressing interest does not lead to nor imply any obligations either way and will be treated in full confidence. 

Looking forward to hear from you via LinkedIn messaging or [email protected]

Thank you.