Backward erosion piping in numerical models

A literature review

Review (2025)
Author(s)

E. M. van der Linde (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences, Deltares)

M. Wewer (Technische Universität Dresden)

B. A. Robbins (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

O. Colomés (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)

S. N. Jonkman (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)

J. P. Aguilar-López (TU Delft - Civil Engineering & Geosciences)

Research Group
Offshore Engineering
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envsoft.2025.106681 Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2025
Language
English
Research Group
Offshore Engineering
Journal title
Environmental Modelling and Software
Volume number
194
Article number
106681
Downloads counter
157
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Abstract

Backward erosion piping is a failure mechanism of dikes. Numerical modelling is crucial for design and assessment against BEP. Over 30 models have been developed, each with a different purpose and approach. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the available numerical BEP models, highlighting their limitations, capabilities, and associated challenges. It discusses the different assumptions and their implications on the representation of BEP. Key challenges in the numerical modelling of BEP are (1) the flow (regime) inside the pipe, which is often simplified, even though the impact of this is relatively unknown. (2) The type of erosion (primary or secondary) differs per model, and even within a given type of erosion, approaches vary. (3) Overcoming the difference in scale is a trade-off between the computational effort and simplification. (4) Furthermore, validation of the physics in BEP modelling is difficult due to a of lack micro-scale experimental data.