9. MORPHODYNAMIC RESPONSE OF SHINGLE AND MIXED SAND / SHINGLE BEACHES IN LARGE SCALE TESTS – PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS

Full-scale physical model investigations have been conducted in the Large Wave Channel (GWK) of the Coastal Research Centre (FZK), Hanover. The morphodynamic response of both shingle and mixed sand with shingle beaches have been tested under random wave conditions. Results have been used to examine whether significant scale effects are present in small-scale model investigations of shingle beaches. Shingle (or gravel) and mixed sand / shingle beaches are widespread in many parts of Europe: they are particularly prevalent in the southeast of England. These beaches are highly efficient dissipators of wave action and they can provide excellent natural or managed defence systems. Shingle beaches are particularly efficient since their high permeabilit