Wave run-up on a rubble mound breakwater: prototype measurements versus scale model tests

Wave run-up on a rubble mound breakwater is investigated. Prototype measurements are carried out on the Zeebrugge breakwater. Two 2D (1:30) and one 3D (1:40) scale models are tested. Measured prototype storms are simulated and parametric tests are performed. Wave run-up is detected by a novel step gauge allowing to detect wave run-up more accurately. In prototype, wave run-up is measured by two different measuring devices: a so-called 'spiderweb system' and a run-up gauge. Both instruments yield comparable results. A clear difference between prototype measurement and physical modelling results is noticed. Also differences between the results of the different laboratories are seen. Various factors leading to these differences are highlighted