COST-EFFECTIVENESS OF I) ARMOR BREAKWATER

Abstract

The cost-effectiveness of conventional and D-armor breakwaters are compared. Initial cost and capitalized anticipated damage during the lifetime of the structure are the basic elements to be considered in the economic optimization problem. A four level structural response function and a linear initial construction cost estimation are used to define the economic function. An exponential approximation to the return period of the design wave storm with an uncertainty factor is used to estimate the economic impact of the wave climate uncertainty. Finally, the adaptative design concept is introduced considering the advantages of designing for repairing and monitoring breakwaters after construction.