Utilizing Tidal Signals to Understand Porewater Pressure Response in a Foreshore Tidal Environment

Abstract

This study investigates the porewater pressure response of low hydraulic conductivity tidal sediment using the natural tidal signal of the Bay of Fundy. Conducted in Avonport, Nova Scotia, the research uses vibrating wire piezometers in the intertidal zone of the immediate foreshore of a dyke structure and the integration of the acquired data with finite element geotechnical modelling. The study examines the effects of hydraulic conductivity, soil heterogeneity, anisotropy, and drainage boundaries on porewater pressure response. Findings suggest that porewater pressure response can be explained by both a changing total head and total stress boundary condition in this low hydraulic conductivity sediments, highlighting the importance of considering both factors when modelling the geotechnical response to loading in these types of sediments.