Study on Effectiveness of Solitary-Wave-Like Form Based on Overtopping Data from Irregular Wave Tests

The previous study conducted by Li (2022) demonstrates that the Goda graph can be adequately represented by a solitary-wave-like form across the entire range of relative water depth, with the exception of the extremely shallow zone. However, it remains uncertain whether this form is equally effective when applied to test data generated by irregular waves, as the Goda graph was initially developed based on overtopping data from regular wave tests. Additionally, it is unclear whether this form is suitable for formulating overtopping discharge at composite vertical walls. In order to address these questions, a 2D overtopping experiment was conducted, incorporating both simple and composite types of vertical walls, with various relative water depths across the entire range, excluding the extremely shallow zone. A novel analysis procedure was developed, which proved to be highly productive and can be considered a general method for data fitting. Ultimately, the study yielded two conclusions: (1) the solitary-wave-like form is remarkably effective in formulating overtopping test data generated by irregular waves, regardless of whether the vertical wall is simple or composite, and (2) the resulting formulas exhibit definitely better performance compared with existing formulas.