Artificial or Engineered reefs are typically submerged structures, developed for enhancing the ecological system. Often these artificial reefs have either a complex shape inspired by biomimicry (e.g. Coastruction) or a more regular shape, designed to function as modular blocks that can be easily placed on top of each other (e.g. Reefy). In many parts of the world, application of these engineered elements on top of existing shallow reefs may be a solution to not only enhance the ecosystem but also to increase the safety level of the hinterland.
To quantify the possible effect of such artificial reefs in more shallower areas, physical model testing have been performed in which both overtopping was measured with and without the use of engineered elements.The performance of these engineered elements in relation to its submergence has been investigated and a reduction coefficient has been developed.
