Coastal erosion prevention by geotextile tube technology

Recently, geotextile tube technology has changed from being an alternative construction technique and, in fact, has advanced to become the prime solution of choice. This paper presents the various issues related to the geotextile tube technology and case history of shore protection at Young-Jin beach on the east coast of Korea. A stability analysis by the two-dimensional limit equilibrium theory is highlighted and the hydraulic model test results are described. Based on the results of stability analysis and hydraulic model tests, a double-lined geotextile tube installed with zero-water depth above crest was found to be the most stable and effective for wave absorption than other design plans. Also, the shoreline at Young-Jin beach was extended by about 2.4-7.6m seaward, and seabed sand was gradually accumulated around areas covered by the geotextile tube. (c) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.