Numerical modelling of the growth of offshore sand waves

i Numerical modelling of the growth of offshore sand waves Preface This thesis is my final work carried out for the double degree Master of Science programme in Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management at the Delft University of Technology and the National University of Singapore. The study was carried out at Deltares and covers various modelling aspects of the growth of offshore sand waves. During the past ten months, I have learned a great deal about the interesting and dynamic world of sand waves. More importantly however, I have learned about myself. The many ups and downs, much like walking over a sand wave field, led to experiences of joy, distress, hope and finally satisfaction. I am grateful for all the guidance that I have received from my graduation committee members. First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to Robert, my daily supervisor, for the inspiring talks and instructive feedback. In addition, I would like to thank Bas and Roderik for all the knowledge and guidance they have given me. Furthermore, many thanks to Astrid for her critical and useful remarks, which helped broaden my understanding. I would also like to thank professor Stive, professor Cheong, S.K. and Tim for their constructive feedback. Moreover, I would like to express my gratitude to various people at Deltares who helped me during my thesis. Thanks to Qinghua Ye, Adri Mourits, Bert Jagers and Pieter Koen Tonnon for all the help with the Delft3D model. Thanks to Kees Sloff and Erik Mosselman for the extensive discussions on the bed slope effect. Thanks to all the friends that have supported me during my studies. I am grateful to have made such good friends, both in Delft and in Singapore. Thanks to the fellow students at Deltares for all the good laughs and motivational boosts. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the infinite support and the amazing amount of patience that my parents, my sister and Lodewijk have given me. Words cannot describe my gratefulness. iii Numerical modelling of the growth of offshore sand wave s