Understanding scour when harnessing the power of wind and waves

My passion for coastal engineering

I studied BEng (Hons) Civil and Coastal Engineering at Plymouth, during which I found the coastal aspect of the course the most interesting. This made me want to specialise further – Plymouth's MSc Coastal Engineering programme was the perfect way to do so. 

I enjoyed my time here as an undergraduate and as one of the top universities for coastal research it was a no brainer for me to stay here for my masters.

Using the COAST laboratory has really provided meaning to the work undertaken in lectures. The opportunity to undertake new research in this facility has been very interesting, enjoyable and integral to my MSc dissertation project.

Using wind and waves to erode scouring

For my MSc dissertationr project, I am investigating the extent of scour development around a monopile mounted oscillating water column (OWC).

Monopiles are foundation structures typically used to support offshore wind turbines, and OWCs are a type of wave energy converter, so by combining the two both wind and wave energy can be harnessed at the same location offshore. This provides many financial and logistical benefits associated with construction and maintenance. 

Scour is the removal of sediment, such as silt and sand, which can result in the formation of scour holes around the monopile, potentially compromising the integrity of a structure.

There is no existing research into the effect which installing an OWC has on the seabed, so I am performing tests to compare the scour around a monopile with the scour around a monopile fitted with an OWC.

Replicating the seabed in the lab

For my research I am performing a physical modelling exercise using the coast basin – which can generate waves and currents in different orientations – in the University’s COAST laboratory.

I have constructed a large sand pit to replicate the seabed, as well as a scaled model monopile and OWC, which are installed in the centre of the basin.

The models are subjected to hydrodynamic forces exerted by current and waves, causing scour.

This scour is measured using various instrumentation, including acoustic and laser sensors, to assess its development over time and its maximum extent.

Rolling with the research waves

A greater understanding of the effect OWC have on scour may mean renewable energy developers are more likely to employ such technology alongside offshore wind turbines. 

My research has the potential to improve the design of monopile mounted OWCs, which would mean more renewable energy generated for less money than separate deployments.

I recommend to make the most of every opportunity available at University, so you get to experience a range of new things to study which may influence your research, as well as your free time.

It's great to be able to take my passion out of the lab into the field so easily. There are many great rivers nearby that offer some awesome white water and plenty of flatter water too, all surrounded by great scenery. I have put this to good use by coaching the University’s canoe and kayak club for the past three years. 

After I graduate, I hope to build on my current research and work in the renewable energy industry on the development of new wave energy technologies.