ACI 357.3R – Guide for Design and Construction of Waterfront and Coastal Concrete Marine Structures

Waterfront and coastal concrete marine structures are exposed to severe environmental conditions for which concrete is ideally suited. These conditions include wind; waves, including seiches and tsunamis; ice and ship impact; abrasion and impact from floating debris; passing vessel effects; and seismic events. As many of these structures are pile-supported, the seismic loading can be critical and, therefore, a discussion of piles and their installation is included in this guide. Also provided are the measures that can be taken to minimize the undesirable effects of these environmental factors and reduce the potential for serious problems. This guide also defines waterfront and coastal concrete marine structures, discusses materials that can be used to construct them, describes potential durability issues and how to mitigate them, and presents sustainability and serviceability requirements. Design loads, analysis techniques, design methodology, and construction considerations are also presented. Other topics include quality control (QC), above-water and below-water inspection of these structures, and repair of damaged structures. The materials, processes, QC measures, and inspections described in this guide should be tested, monitored, or performed as applicable only by qualified individuals holding the appropriate ACI certifications or equivalent.