Numerical analysis of stability of sea dikes: a case study at An Bien - An Minh coastline

Tóm tắt

In response to increasing coastal hazards driven by climate change and sea level rise, this study investigates severe shoreline erosion and instability of the An Bien - An Minh sea dike system in An Giang Province, Vietnam, located in the western Mekong Delta. The research aims to evaluate the existing geological, geotechnical, and hydrodynamic conditions of the study area and to assess their combined influence on the stability and structural performance of the sea dike system. Field investigations and monitoring programs were conducted to collect data on wave characteristics, coastal currents, sediment conditions, and subsurface soil properties. These datasets were integrated into a numerical modeling framework using PLAXIS 3D based on the finite element method to analyze soil-structure interaction, deformation behavior, and stability of the dike system under representative design loading conditions. The numerical analysis focused on stress distribution, displacement patterns, and potential failure mechanisms associated with soft soil foundations and wave-induced loading. Based on the modeling results, an integrated coastal protection solution is proposed, combining offshore wave attenuation structures, reinforced concrete revetments, and mangrove forest restoration. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed measures significantly reduce wave energy transmitted to the dike toe, mitigate shoreline erosion, and enhance the overall stability and resilience of the sea dike system. In addition to technical effectiveness, the integrated solution supports environmental sustainability by promoting ecosystem-based coastal protection and reducing long-term maintenance requirements. The findings provide a robust scientific basis for climate-resilient coastal infrastructure planning and management in the Mekong Delta and offer practical guidance for the design and upgrading of sea dike systems in other low-lying coastal regions facing similar climate-related challenges.