Forces and moment on a horizontal plate due to wave scattering

Wave reflection and transmission from a fixed horizontal plate have been widely studied but theoretical solutions are only available for certain limiting conditions. A general solution for this wave scattering problem is presented using the finite-element method, covering the whole range of relative depth ratio from shallow to deep water limits and submergence depth ratio from the water surface to the bed. Existing long-wave solutions for the surface plate and the submerged plate have been extended to obtain the hydrodynamic forces and overturning moment exerted on the plate. Results from the finite-element program compare well with these solutions. Variations of the reflection coefficient, wave forces and moment, with the plate width to wave length ratio, relative depth ratio and submergence depth ratio are discussed.