Stability and Hydraulic Performance of Movable Flood Protection Barriers

In July 2021, an extraordinary precipitation event caused by a cold core low resulted in widespread flooding in Europe, including the Netherlands. Especially in South Limburg was hit the most by this unpredicted event, leading to extensive damage. Because of this hazard, the Dutch government is seeking methods to reduce the impact of future flash floods. As a result, Waterschap Limburg, Flood Proof Holland and Delft University of Technology made an agreement to conduct a physical experiment in Roermond on May 2023 to test the functionality of the movable flood protection barriers in different spatial conditions. This thesis will summarise current information on movable flood protection barriers in spatial variability and conduct a multi-criteria analysis of quantifiable measures. This semi-analytical approach provides a thorough and objective assessment of the movable flood protection barriers, enabling decision-makers to make informed judgements on the effectiveness and suitability of flood management. Companies can also use the findings to improve their barriers, leading to better designs in the future and reduced damage caused by flash flood events.

For more information, please contact: k.w.chan@student.tudelft.nl