SEDIMENT TRANSPORT

Edited by Silvia Susana Ginsberg

Sediment Transport
Edited by Silvia Susana Ginsberg

Published by InTech
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Contents

Preface IX

Chapter 1 Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:

Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 1
B. Dewals, F. Rulot, S. Erpicum, P. Archambeau and M. Pirotton

Chapter 2 Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport

for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 31
Vincent Leys and Ryan P. Mulligan

Chapter 3 Numerical Modelling of the Sediment

Re-Suspension Induced by Boat Traffic 55
Hassan Smaoui, Abdellatif Ouahsine, Damien Pham Van Bang,
Philippe Sergent and François Hissel

Chapter 4 Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale

and Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic
and Sediment Transport Processes 71
H. S. Tang and Timothy Keen

Chapter 5 Cohesive Sediment Flocculation

and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 91
A. J. Manning, J. V. Baugh, R. L. Soulsby,
J. R. Spearman and R. J. S. Whitehouse

Chapter 6 Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and

Modelling of Shoreline Change 117
H. Anıl Arı Güner, Yalçın Yüksel and Esin Özkan Çevik

Chapter 7 Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation

of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 137
Xiaobo Chao and Yafei Jia

Chapter 8 Sediment Transport Dynamics

in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 161
Xu-Ming Wang, Jie Huo, Rui Hao and Shi-Feng Cao
VI Contents

Chapter 9 Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 175

Chun Kiat, Chang and Aminuddin, Ab. Ghani

Chapter 10 Changes in Sediment Transport

of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 197
Faye Hirshfield and Jueyi Sui

Chapter 11 Modeling of Developed Meanders

of an Alluvial Channel 215
L. Yilmaz

Chapter 12 Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment

Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 237
Long Bernard and Montreuil Stéphane

Chapter 13 Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 261

Faye Hirshfield and Jueyi Sui

Chapter 14 Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern

through Mesotidal Channels System 275
Silvia Susana Ginsberg and Salvador Aliotta

Chapter 15 Continuous Monitoring of Suspended

Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 295
Tiziana Bisantino, Francesco Gentile and Giuliana Trisorio Liuzzi

Chapter 16 Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:

Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications
to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 313
Marcia R. M. Chaves, Kalliat T. Valsaraj, Ronald D. DeLaune,
Robert P. Gambrell and Pedro M. Buchler
Preface

Sediment Transport is a book that covers a wide variety of subject matters. Physicists,
engineers, mathematicians, statisticians, and geologists have been investigating sedi-
ment transport for several decades and keep on doing so to learn further about it in
an attempt to give solutions to problems resulting from human intervention in nature.
In this respect, research on sediment transport has gained importance due to the in-
creasing use of water resources. On the other hand, fully understanding erosion and
sedimentation processes and their impact on sediment transport plays a key role in the
growing knowledge on the importance of fluvial, lake and/or marine sediments over
a highly heterogenous variety of environmental problems. In this respect, this book
is a doubly significant contribution, firstly because of the growing interest of society
in environmental matters and secondly because of the updated issues it deals with. It
reports results from studies carried out in aqueous systems and in laboratory flumes
by researchers whose expertise focuses on transportable solid particles and related
problems.

It is with great satisfaction that I write the preface to this book by InTech, which in-
cludes 16 chapters written by researchers from different parts of the world on hydrody-
namics and its relationship with sediment transport and morphological development.
The main subject matter is presented in the light of different approaches such as sedi-
ment transport modeling in non-alluvial beds and hyperconcentrated flows; coastal
area modeling for harbor planning; littoral zone modeling, boat traffic-induced sedi-
ment resuspension modeling; and settling flux modeling. Other contributions includ-
ed in the book focus on cohesive sediment modeling; sediment dynamics in stream
confluence or river diversion; analytical modeling applied to studies on fluid-bed in-
terfaces in meandering channels; changes in sediment transport under fine materi-
als, cohesive materials and ice cover; environmental remediation of contaminated fine
sediments; bedform field evolution over sediment transport; and sediment circulation
at interconnected tidal channels system. Authors are responsible for their views and
conclusions.

In short, by fully accomplishing its objectives, this book is an excellent source of infor-
mation which opens new paths worth of exploring. It is an invaluable interdisciplinary
textbook and an important contribution to the field. Let me also gratefully thank each
of the authors for their contributions and strongly recommend this textbook to those
X Preface

in charge of conducting research on engineering issues or wishing to deal with equally

important scientific problems.

Silvia Susana Ginsberg

Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía, Bahía Blanca,
Universidad Tecnológica Nacional, FRBB,
Departamento de Ingeniería Civil, Bahía Blanca,
Argentina
 1

Advanced Topics in Sediment

Transport Modelling: Non-alluvial
Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows
B. Dewals, F. Rulot, S. Erpicum, P. Archambeau and M. Pirotton
Hydrology, Applied Hydrodynamics and Hydraulic Constructions, University of Liège,
Chemin des Chevreuils 1, B52/3+1 - B-4000 Liège,
Belgium

1. Introduction
Civil and environmental engineers frequently face sediment transport issues such as local
scouring, sedimentation in reservoirs, erosion after floods or dam breaching flows as well as
long term aggradation or degradation of riverbed (Dewals et al. 2010b; van Rijn 2007; White
2001). Such sediment related problems are of huge importance in most projects of river
engineering, calling for structures to be designed considering sediment transport issues
from the very early stages of project development. Sustainable operation rules also need to
be developed, both in short and long term perspectives. As a result of the complexity of the
governing physical processes and the significant uncertainties affecting input data,
modeling tools with a genuine predictive capacity, such as comprehensively validated
numerical models, constitute key elements to provide quantitative decision-support in
project design and developments.
Sediment transport has been studied from a physical point of view for almost two hundred
years but is not yet fully understood (Frey and Church 2009). In particular, while the
Navier-Stokes and continuity equations represent a generally accepted mathematical
description of fluid flow, there is no comparable model for the complete interaction of flow,
sediment transport and bed evolution (Spasojevic and Holly 2008). Therefore, sediment
transport remains a challenging topic of research today, since a unified description of
processes is still to be achieved. In this quest, both new experimental approaches and more
advanced numerical models have a part to play; the former providing new insight into
fundamental processes while the later enabling to upscale the results for real-life
applications.
In this chapter, we first present an original two-phase flow model for the water-sediment
mixture, acting as a unified basis for all our subsequent developments. Next, we focus on
two topics in which we have made original contributions, namely sediment routing on
alluvial and non-alluvial beds and modelling of transient hyperconcentrated flows. In both
cases, we use our original two-phase flow modelling framework to derive specific
governing equations, for which we detail an appropriate finite volume numerical scheme
and demonstrate their validity through a number of test cases.
2 Sediment Transport

2. Two-phase flow model for water-sediment mixtures

In this section, we subsequently review existing mathematical models for sediment-laden
flows, including two-phase flow theories, present our own two-phase flow morphodynamic
model and eventually detail its mathematical properties together with its numerical
discretization.

2.1 Existing mathematical models

Cao and Carling (2002a) have provided a comprehensive discussion of existing approaches
for mathematical modelling of sediment-laden flows. They have emphasized a number of
shortcomings, particularly with respect to the turbulence closure models and the bottom
boundary conditions. The former fail to reproduce the intricate interactions between the
sediments and the flow turbulence; while the formulation of the later is affected by a high
level of uncertainty as detailed in their companion paper (Cao and Carling 2002b). Existing
numerical models also generally rely on simplifications in the water-sediment mixture and
global sediment continuity equations: respectively, ignored time derivative of the bottom
elevation and neglected sediment storage in the water column. These assumptions become
questionable when significantly transient processes take place.
In contrast with other fields of hydraulic engineering such as aerated flows (Kerger et al.
2010b), the governing equations underlying most existing models for sediment-laden flows
stem from single-phase flow theory. They involve continuity and momentum equations for
clear water, combined with a continuity equation for sediments (Spasojevic and Holly 2008).
They are therefore only valid for low sediment concentrations (<0.1 in volume) (Greimann
and Holly 2001). Although water-sediment mixtures constitute obviously two-phase media,
only very few attempts to account explicitly for this multiphase nature have been reported
in sediment transport models and hardly none in morphodynamic models.
Two-phase flow models for sediment transport
In a two-phase formulation, Cao et al. (1995) derived suspended sediment concentration
profiles valid for both low and high concentrations. Importance was stressed on the
influence of the closure relations for turbulent viscosity and diffusivity. Similarly, Greimann
et al. (1999) explained the increased diffusive flux of large particles and measurable velocity
lag of particles (drift velocity), two observed phenomena but theoretically unexplained so
far. A generalized mathematical model for the liquid-solid mixture was derived by Wu and
Wang (2000) based on the two-fluid model, but validation and application were not
reported. Greimann and Holly (2001) accounted for both particle-particle interactions and
particle inertia in the expression of equilibrium concentration profiles for suspended
sediments. Still, empiricism was necessary to formulate the turbulence quantities and they
highlighted the need for further experimental and analytical work to develop improved
models for the fluid eddy viscosity, relative magnitude of the particle turbulence intensity
and boundary conditions applicable to loose beds. Criteria were given to determine if
particle-particle interactions and particle inertia are significant. Recently, Bombardelli and
Jha (2009) showed that both a standard sediment-transport model and a two-fluid-model
predict accurately the velocity field, whereas only the later provides satisfactory predictions
for the concentration profiles and the turbulence statistics. Extending to two-phase flows the
well-known results of single-phase flows in open channels, they also found that the
Reynolds stress model does not improve the predictions beyond the accuracy of the
standard k−ε model, at least for dilute mixtures. Values of the Schmidt number that fit the
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 3

datasets indicate that the eddy viscosity is smaller than the diffusivity of sediment
(Bombardelli and Jha 2009), which is in agreement with part of the literature but not all (Cao
and Carling 2002a; Cao and Carling 2002b).
Two-phase morphodynamic models
Two-phase formulations for complete morphodynamic models are hardly available in
literature. Recently, Greco et al. (2008) presented a 1D single layer two-phase
morphodynamic model, which they successfully applied for dam break flow over an
erodible topography.
A more rigorous theoretical derivation of a general two-phase flow model for flows in
hydraulic environmental engineering has also been presented by Kerger, Dewals et al.
(2011), but validation and applications have not yet been reported.
Double-averaged models
The double-averaging concept was recently introduced in hydraulic engineering by Nikora
et al. (2007) and current research suggests that it may become a standard tool for fluvial
applications. By means of explicit consideration of roughness mobility and form-induced
stresses stemming from a rigorous derivation, the approach provides an enhanced treatment
of the bed shear stress formulation, which will prove valuable for morphodynamic
modelling. Nonetheless, using the double-averaged hydrodynamic equations for
developing numerical models is still in its infancy and closures for subgrid scale effects
remain to be developed (Walters and Plew 2008).

2.2 Derivation of an original two-phase flow model

In the following paragraphs, we detail the derivation of a two-phase mathematical model
for flow, sediment transport and morphodynamics. The finite volume numerical technique
developed to solve the set of governing equations is also detailed, together with a
comparative discussion of synchronous vs. sequential resolution of the flow, sediment
transport and morphodynamic models.
Conservation laws
Following an Eulerian description of the flow, we formulate conservation laws for the flow
in a Cartesian system of coordinates (x, y, z), as sketched in Fig. 1.

z′
θz z
θy θx

Fig. 1. Axis of reference.

4 Sediment Transport

The x and y axes are chosen in such a way that the plane they define corresponds to the
main flow direction. Axis z is simply set normal to this plane. The axes x, y and z are
inclined of angles θx, θy and θz with respect to the vertical direction (axis z’). In the particular
case where the x-y plane is horizontal the angles become: θx = θy = 0 and θz = π / 2.
The Reynolds-averaged mass and momentum conservation equations for the water-
sediment mixture read:

∂ρ ∂ ( ρ u ) ∂ ( ρ v ) ∂ ( ρ w )
+ + + =0 (1)
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂z

∂ ( ρu)
+
(
∂ ρ u2 ) + ∂ ( ρ uv ) + ∂ ( ρuw ) = − ∂p + ∂σ x
+
∂τ xy
+
∂τ xz
+ ρ g sin θ x
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂z ∂x ∂x ∂y ∂z

∂ ( ρv)
+
∂ ( ρ uv )
+
(
∂ ρ v2 ) + ∂ ( ρ vw ) = − ∂p + ∂τ yx
+
∂σ y
+
∂τ yz
+ ρ g sin θ y (2)
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂z ∂y ∂x ∂y ∂z

∂ ( ρ w)
+
∂ ( ρ uw )
+
∂ ( ρ vw )
+
(
∂ ρ w2 ) = − ∂p + ∂τ zx
+
∂τ zy
+
∂σ z
− ρ g sin θ z
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂z ∂z ∂x ∂y ∂z

with ρ = mixture density; u, v and w = velocity components along x, y and z; g = gravity

acceleration; p = pressure; σi = Reynolds normal stresses (i = x, y, z); τij = Reynolds shear
stresses (i, j = x, y, z). Viscous stresses in the momentum equations have been neglected
compared to Reynolds stresses since the later greatly excess the former in practical
applications.
Conservation of a dispersed phase in the fluid, namely suspended sediments, is expressed
by the following advection-diffusion equation:

∂ ( ρφ ) ∂ ( ρ uφ ) ∂ ( ρ vφ ) ∂ ⎛ ∂qφd, x ∂qφd, y ∂qφd, z ⎞

+ + + ⎡⎣ ρ ( w − ws )φ ⎤⎦ = − ⎜ + + ⎟ + Sφ . , (3)
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂z ⎜ ∂x ∂y ∂z ⎟
⎝ ⎠
in which φ = mass concentration and ws = settling velocity of sediments. Notations qφd,x ,
qφd,y and qφd,z refer to the mass fluxes induced by turbulence, which are usually evaluated as
follows:

ν T ∂φ ν ∂φ ν T ∂φ
qφd, x = , qφd, y = T and qφd, z = , (4)
σ T ∂x σ T ∂y σ T ∂z

with σT the Schmidt number taking typical values in-between 0.8 and 1.2 (e.g. Hervouet
2003). The notation Sφ designates the production rate within the flow layer, which is
usually zero for non-reactive flows.
Depth-averaging concept
Most flows of interest in civil and environmental engineering are characterized by
significantly larger length scales in a reference plane (often almost horizontal) compared to
the characteristic depth of the flow. This motivates the use of depth-averaged models, which
require far less intricate numerical resolution procedures than needed for general three-
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 5

dimensional free surface flows. In addition, besides reducing the complexity of the model,
such a depth-averaged description of the flow better fits with available data and outputs of
interest for most applications in civil and environmental engineering.
Bottom and free surface boundary conditions
Deriving a depth-averaged model from equations (1)-(3) requires boundary conditions to be
prescribed at the bottom (z = zb) and at the free surface (z = zs). These include kinematic
boundary conditions expressed as follows:

∂zb ∂z ∂z
+ u b + v b − w = rb , (5)
∂t ∂x ∂y

∂zs ∂z ∂z
+u s +v s −w=0, (6)
∂t ∂x ∂y

with rb (m/s) the exchange flux with the bed; zb and zs the bed and surface elevations
respectively. Note that ∂zb/∂t has not been set to zero in (5) since we deal here with flows
over erodible beds.
Since wind effects are not considered here, dynamic boundary conditions at the free surface
simply state that pressure remains equal to the atmospheric pressure and that both normal
and shear stresses are zero. Dynamic boundary conditions at the bottom link the
components of the stress tensor with the bottom shear stress τb per unit horizontal surface:

∂zb ∂z
τ bx ΔΣ = σ x + τ xy b − τ xz
∂x ∂y
∂zb ∂z
τ by ΔΣ = τ xy + σ y b − τ yz (7)
∂x ∂y
∂z ∂z
τ bz ΔΣ = τ xz b + τ yz b − σ z ,
∂x ∂y

1 + ( ∂zb ∂x ) + ( ∂zb ∂y ) (Hervouet 2003).

2 2
where notation ΔΣ stands for
Boundary conditions for the sediment advection-diffusion equation express the exchange
rate Sφd,b of sediments between the bed and the flow layer:

∂zb ∂zb
Sφd,b ΔΣ = ⎡⎣qφd, x ⎤⎦ + ⎡⎣qφd, y ⎤⎦ − ⎡⎣qφd, z ⎤⎦ . (8)
b ∂x b ∂y b

while this exchange rate is simply zero at the free surface.

Scaling and shallow flow assumption
Standard scaling analysis of equations (1)-(3) proves useful to further simplify the derivation
of the depth-averaged model. If the characteristic flow depth H is assumed much smaller
than the characteristic length scale L in the x-y plane, then the depth-averaged z momentum
balance is shown to reduce to the hydrostatic equilibrium:
6 Sediment Transport

zs
∂p
= − ρ g sin θ z ⇒ p ( z ) = g sin θ z ∫ ρ dz′ . (9)
∂z z

This in turn provides an explicit relationship between the pressure and other flow variables
such as density and water depth.
General depth-averaged model
Integration of the three-dimensional equations (1)-(3) over the local flow depth, accounting
for the boundary conditions (5)-(8), results in the following set of two-dimensional
equations:

∂ ∂ ∂
∂t
( )
hρ +
∂x
h ρu + (
∂y
) (
h ρ v = − ρ brb ) (10)

∂
∂t
(
hρu +
∂
∂x
)
h ρ u2 + (∂
∂y
h ρ uv) ( )
(11)
∂hp ∂z ∂hσ x ∂hτ xy
=− − ρ bubrb − [ p ]b b + + + τ bx ΔΣ + h ρ g sin θ x
∂x ∂x ∂x ∂y

∂
∂t
(
hρv +
∂
∂x
)
h ρ uv + (∂
∂y
h ρ v2) ( )
(12)
∂hp ∂z ∂hτ yx ∂hσ y
=− − ρ b vbrb − [ p ]b b + + + τ by ΔΣ + h ρ g sin θ y
∂y ∂y ∂x ∂y

∂ ∂ ∂
∂t
(h ρφ + )
∂x
(
h ρ uφ +
∂y
)
h ρ vφ ( )
(13)
⎡∂
= − ρ bφbrb − ⎢
⎣ ∂x (
hqφd, x +
∂
∂y
) ( ⎤
⎦
)
hqφd, y ⎥ + Sφd,s − Sφd,b + hSφ

Overbars denote depth-averaged quantities. So far, no particular velocity or concentration

profile has been assumed and the set of equations holds whatever the velocity and
concentration distributions across the flow layer.
Bed-load mass balance equation
Besides the flow and transport equations (10)-(13), an additional mass balance equation for
the bed-load is necessary to constitute the complete morphodynamic model. As sketched in
Fig. 2, two layers may be distinguished in the bed material. The lower layer consists of bed
material at rest, while bed-load takes place in the upper layer. Sediment continuity in the
bed-load layer is expressed by Exner equation:

∂zb ∂qbx ∂q by
(1 − p) + + = − eb (14)
∂t ∂x ∂y
Notations qbx and qby denote the bed-load unit discharges along x and y respectively. The
sediment flux normal to the bed eb = E - D represents the net sediment exchange rate
between the bed and the flow layer.
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 7

Fig. 2. Schematic configuration underlying the depth-averaged morphodynamic model.

Characteristics of flow-sediment mixtures
To derive our two-phase morphodynamic model from the general depth-averaged
continuity and momentum equations (10)-(13) for the sediment-laden flow and for the
dispersed phase (suspended load), adequate density, velocity and concentration profiles
must be we incorporated in equations (10)-(13). For a water-sediment mixture, density and
mass concentration are given by:

ρ = ρ w ( 1 − C ) + ρsC = ρ w ⎣⎡1 + ( s − 1 ) C ⎦⎤ = ρ w ( 1 + ΔsC ) (15)

ρsC ρsC sC (16)

φ= = =
ρ ρ w ( 1 + ΔsC ) 1 + ΔsC
with s = ρs / ρw the relative density of sediments and the notation Δ is defined as Δ s = s - 1.
The real concentration profile is highly case-dependent and, for transient and varied flows,
it may considerably deviate from computed equilibrium distributions, such as Rouse-type
profiles. Therefore, we simply assume here a uniform concentration profile, which is found
close to observations for highly transient flows accompanied by high transport rates. For
similar reasons, the velocity profile is also simply assumed to be uniform.
We neglect the possible effects of differential advection of momentum due to a non-uniform
velocity profile. Indeed, inclusion of a correction factor, so-called Boussinesq coefficient
(Hervouet et al. 2003), appears unnecessary for a wide range of applications, in which the
shear layer remains localized near the bed.
Based on the shallow flow assumption, the pressure distribution may be deduced from the
simplified form (9) of the momentum equation along z, the direction normal to the main
flow plane:

∂p
= − ρ g sin θ z = − ρ w ( 1 + ΔsC ) g sin θ z . (17)
∂z
8 Sediment Transport

Assuming a uniform concentration profile along z and using the atmospheric pressure at the
free surface as reference pressure, the following expressions involved in the governing
equations (11)-(12) may be evaluated:

( )
hp = ρ w 1 + ΔsC g sin θ z h 2 2 ( )
and pb = ρ w 1 + ΔsC g sin θ z h . (18)

Diffusive fluxes in the sediment advection-diffusion equation are evaluated as follows:

ν T ∂C ν T ∂C
qCd , x = − and qCd , y = − , (19)
σ T ∂x σ T ∂y
where the Schmidt number σT accounts for the difference between eddy viscosity and
turbulent diffusivity of sediments. Although a generally accepted evaluation of this
parameter is still lacking (Cao and Carling 2002a), it is reported to vary between 0.8 and 1.2
and is often simply set to unity.
Governing equations for flow-sediment mixtures
Introducing the results (15)-(19) into equations (10)-(13) leads to the following formulation
of the governing equations for two-phase mixtures of water and suspended sediments. The
mixture continuity equation becomes:

∂ ⎡ ∂ ∂ ⎡ e
∂t ⎣
( )
h 1 + ΔsC ⎤ + ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC u ⎤ +
⎦ ∂x ⎣ ⎦ ∂y ⎣( )⎦ (
h 1 + ΔsC v ⎤ = ⎡⎣1 + Δs ( 1 − p ) ⎤⎦ b)
1−p
(20)

whereas, using expressions (18), the mixture momentum equations may be written as:

∂⎡ ∂ ∂ ⎡
∂t ⎣
( ) (
h 1 + ΔsC u ⎤⎦ + ⎡⎣ h 1 + ΔsC u 2 ⎤⎦ +
∂x ∂y ⎣
)
h 1 + ΔsC u v ⎤⎦ ( )
∂ ⎡ h2 ⎤ ∂zb
+
∂x ⎣⎢
( ) 2 ⎦⎥
(
⎢ 1 + ΔsC g sin θ z ⎥ + h 1 + ΔsC g sin θ z
∂x
) (21)

eb − e b τ bx 1 ⎛ ∂hσ x ∂hτ xy ⎞
= ⎡⎣1 + Δs( 1 − p ) ⎤⎦ uβ + ΔΣ + h ( 1 + ΔsC ) g sin θ x + ⎜ + ⎟,
2 (1 − p) ρw ρ w ⎜⎝ ∂x ∂y ⎟
⎠

∂⎡ ∂ ∂ ⎡
∂t ⎣ ( ⎦ )∂x ⎣ (
h 1 + ΔsC v ⎤ + ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC u v ⎤ +
⎦ ∂y ⎣
)
h 1 + ΔsC v 2 ⎤
⎦ ( )
∂ ⎡ h2 ⎤ ∂zb
+ ( ) (
⎢ 1 + ΔsC g sin θ z ⎥ + h 1 + ΔsC g sin θ z
∂y ⎢⎣ 2 ⎥⎦ ∂y
) (22)

eb − e b τ by 1 ⎛ ∂hτ xy ∂hσ y ⎞
= ⎡⎣1 + Δs ( 1 − p ) ⎤⎦
2 (1 − p)
vβ +
ρw
( )
ΔΣ + h 1 + ΔsC g sin θ y + ⎜
ρ w ⎜⎝ ∂x
+
∂y
⎟.
⎟
⎠
Expressing the density ρ as in (15) and the mass concentration φ as a function of the volume
concentration C according to (16), the continuity equation for the dispersed phase writes:

∂ ∂ ∂ ⎡ ∂ ⎛ ν ∂C ⎞ ∂ ⎛ ν T ∂C ⎞ ⎤
( )
hC + huC +( )
hvC = − ⎢ ⎜ h T ( )
⎟ + ⎜h ⎟ ⎥ + eb . (23)
∂t ∂x ∂y ⎢⎣ ∂x ⎝ σ T ∂x ⎠ ∂y ⎝ σ T ∂y ⎠ ⎥⎦
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 9

Finally, the morphodynamic evolution is governed by Exner equation expressing the bed-
load continuity as in (14):

∂ ∂q ∂q by
⎡( 1 − p ) zb ⎦⎤ + bx +
⎣ = − eb , (24)
∂t ∂x ∂y
where eb = E - D is the net erosion rate, evaluated as the difference between the erosion flux
E (m/s) and the deposition flux D (m/s). A detailed discussion of the formulation of all
terms involving the net erosion rate in (20)-(24) is given by Dewals (2006). The solid unit
discharges qbx and qby include both the flow-induced and the gravity-induced (slope
failures) components of bed sediment transport.
Closure of the set of equations (20)-(24) requires a resistance formula to compute τ bx ρ w
and τ by ρ w , a turbulence model, as well as an exchange model for evaluating E - D.
Instead of a uniform concentration profile, a piecewise uniform profile may also be
assumed, leading to only slight modifications in the governing equations. Indeed, if the
concentration is assumed to take a uniform value Cb for zb ≤ z ≤ zb + h1 and zero above, only
two changes are necessary in the equations: hC is replaced by h1C b and the pressure term
( ) ( ) ( )
1 + ΔsC g sin θ z h 2 2 becomes h 2 2 + ΔsC b h12 2 g sin θ z . Previous authors have used
such approximations keeping Cb constant and computing the evolution of hs (Fraccarollo
and Capart 2002) or using appropriate empirical relations (Leal et al. 2003).
The set of governing equations (20)-(24) may be recast in the following vector form, which
simplifies the formulation of the numerical scheme detailed in section 2.3:

∂s ∂fa ∂fd − ∂s ∂g ∂g − ∂s (25)

+ + + A NC + a + d + BNC =r
∂t ∂x ∂x ∂x ∂x ∂x ∂x
with

( ) h ( 1 + ΔsC ) u h ( 1 + ΔsC ) v
T
s = ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC
⎣
hC ( 1 − p ) zb ⎤⎦ (26)

( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
T
fa = ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC u h 1 + ΔsC u 2 + gh 2 1 + ΔsC sin θ z h 1 + ΔsC uv huC q bx ⎤ (27)
⎣ ⎦

( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
T
g a = ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC v h 1 + ΔsC uv h 1 + ΔsC v 2 + gh 2 1 + ΔsC sin θ z hvC q by ⎤ (28)
⎣ ⎦
T T
⎡ hσ x hτ xy ν T ∂C ⎤ ⎡ hτ xy hσ x ν T ∂C ⎤
fd = ⎢0 h 0 ⎥ ; g d = ⎢0 h 0⎥ (29)
⎣ ρw ρw σ T ∂x ⎦ ⎣ ρw ρw σ T ∂y ⎦

⎛0 0 0 0 0 ⎞ ⎛0 0 0 0 ⎞ 0
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
g sin θ z ⎟ ⎜0 0 0 0 0
⎜0
⎜
0 0 0 h 1 + ΔsC ( ) 1−p ⎟ ⎜ g sin θ z ⎟
⎟
−
A NC =⎜ −
⎟ ; BNC = ⎜ 0 0 0 0 h 1 + ΔsC (
1− p ⎟
⎟ (30) )
⎜0 0 0 0 0 ⎟ ⎜
⎜0 0 0 0 0 ⎟ ⎜0 0 0 0 0 ⎟
⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
⎝0 0 0 0 0 ⎠ ⎝0 0 0 0 0 ⎠
and r gathers all source terms.
10 Sediment Transport

2.3 Numerical discretization

The set of governing equations (20)-(24) is solved using a finite volume technique. Details of
the time and space discretizations are provided here, together with a discussion on
sequential vs. synchronous resolution procedures of the morphodynamic model.
Space and time discretization
The computation domain is discretized by means of a multiblock grid, in which each block
consists in a locally Cartesian mesh. Since this multiblock structure enables refined meshes
in critical areas (high gradients, complex geometry), it compensates for the lower flexibility
of Cartesian grids, while keeping the benefits of regular grids in terms of order of accuracy,
computation time and memory requirement.
The space discretization of the divergence form of equations (20)-(24)is performed by means
of a finite volume scheme. Within each block, variable reconstruction at cells interfaces can
be performed by constant or linear extrapolation, combined with a slope limiter, leading
respectively to first or second order accuracy. Variables at the borders between adjacent
blocks are extrapolated linearly, using additional ghost points. The value of the variables at
the ghost points is evaluated from the value of the subjacent cells. Moreover, to ensure
conservation properties at the border between adjacent blocks and thus to compute accurate
continuity and momentum balance, fluxes related to the larger cells are computed at the
level of the finer ones.
Advective fluxes are computed by a Flux Vector Splitting (FVS) method developed by the
authors. According to this FVS, the upwinding direction of each term of the fluxes fa and ga
is simply dictated by the sign of the flow velocity reconstructed at the cells interfaces. It has
thus the advantage of being completely Froude independent and of facilitating a satisfactory
adequacy with the discretization of the bed elevation gradient (Erpicum et al. 2010a). It can
be formally expressed as follows:

( ) ( ) ( )
T
fa+ = ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC u h 1 + ΔsC u 2 h 1 + ΔsC uv huC qbx ⎤ (31)
⎣ ⎦

( )
T
fa− = ⎡0 gh 2 1 + ΔsC sin θ z 0 0 0⎤ (32)
⎣ ⎦

( ) ( ) ( )
T
g a+ = ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC v h 1 + ΔsC uv h 1 + ΔsC v 2 hvC qby ⎤ (33)
⎣ ⎦

( ) ( ) ( ) ( )
T
g a− = ⎡ h 1 + ΔsC v h 1 + ΔsC uv h 1 + ΔsC v 2 + gh 2 1 + ΔsC sin θ z hvC q by ⎤ (34)
⎣ ⎦
where the exponents + and − refer to, respectively, an upstream and a downstream
evaluation of the corresponding terms. A Von Neumann stability analysis has demonstrated
that this FVS leads to a stable spatial discretization of the terms ∂fa/∂x and ∂ga/∂y in (25)
(Dewals 2006). Due to their diffusive nature, the fluxes fd and gd are legitimately evaluated
by means of a centred scheme.
Since the model is applied to compute steady-state solutions, the time integration is
performed by means of a three-step first order accurate Runge-Kutta algorithm, providing
adequate dissipation in time. For stability reasons, the time step is constrained by the
Courant–Friedrichs–Levy (CFL) condition. A semi-implicit treatment of the bottom friction
term (3) is used, without requiring additional computational cost.
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 11

Synchronous vs. sequential resolution procedure

A challenging issue in sediment transport modelling is the need to handle accurately and
efficiently the wide range of time scales involved in the relevant phenomena. Indeed the
time scales of interest extend from a few seconds or minutes (e.g. slope failures or rapid
scouring) to periods as long as years or decades (long term sedimentation). Therefore,
specific numerical modelling tools must be combined to handle reliably and at an acceptable
computational cost the processes characterized by time scales spanning over such a wide
range. To this end, our modelling system enables to solve the sub-models for flow and for
sediment transport as well as morphodynamics in either a synchronous or a sequential
numerical procedure.
In the former case, submodels for flow, sediment transport and morphodynamics are all
updated by one time step simultaneously. This turns out to be the only appropriate
procedure for handling "transcritical" flows, in the range approximately given by
0.6 ≤ Fr ≤ 1.4 as detailed by Dewals et al. (2008a). We have successfully used this resolution
strategy for modelling transient geomorphic flows induced by dam break and dam
breaching (Dewals et al. 2002a; Dewals et al. 2002b; Dewals et al. 2002c), as well as flushing
operations in silted reservoirs (Dewals et al. 2004; Dewals et al. 2008a; Dewals et al. 2010b).
In contrast, the widely used sequential procedure is based on a quasi-steady description of
the flow, which is assumed not to evolve during each time step of the morphodynamic
model. This resolution strategy is substantiated by the significant difference usually
prevailing in-between flow and morphodynamic characteristic time scales. In sub- and
super-critical gradually-varied flows, the flow itself generally adapts much faster than the
morphology: morphological changes in response to flow changes take much longer than the
time required for the flow to adapt to a new bed geometry. Nonetheless, if inappropriately
used, the sequential resolution may degrade both the accuracy and stability of the solution
of the set of governing equations for flow, sediment transport and bed evolution (Cao et al.
2002). We have applied this resolution procedure for predicting long term reservoir
sedimentation (Dewals et al. 2004; Dewals et al. 2008a), leading to a dramatic reduction in
computational time compared to the purely synchronous resolution. Using the so-called
morphological factor may also help to save computational resources within the synchronous
resolution procedure (Kleinhans et al. 2008; van Rijn et al. 2007).
Validated numerical model and other main features
The herein described model constitutes a part of the modelling system “WOLF”, developed
at the University of Liege. WOLF includes a set of complementary and interconnected
modules for simulating a wide range of free surface flows, involving process-oriented
rainfall-runoff modelling, 1D, 2DH, 2DV and 3D hydrodynamics, sediment or pollutant
transport, air entrainment, as well as an optimisation tool based on Genetic Algorithms.
Validity and efficiency of the model has already been proved for numerous applications
(Dewals et al. 2008b; Erpicum et al. 2009; Kerger et al. 2010a), including inundation mapping
(Ernst et al. 2010; Erpicum et al. 2010a; Khuat Duy et al. 2010), dam break and dam
breaching simulations (Dewals et al. 2010a; Erpicum et al. 2010b; Roger et al. 2009) as well as
morphodynamic modelling (Dewals et al. 2002a; Dewals et al. 2002b; Dewals et al. 2002c;
Dewals et al. 2004; Dewals et al. 2008a; Dewals et al. 2010b).
Other functionalities of WOLF include the use of moment of momentum equations (Dewals
2006), the application of the cut-cell method, as well as computations considering bottom
curvature effects by means of curvilinear coordinates in the vertical plane (Dewals et al. 2006).
12 Sediment Transport

A user-friendly interface, entirely designed and implemented by the authors, makes the pre-
and post-processing operations particularly convenient. Import and export operations are
easily feasible from and to various classical GIS tools. Several layers can be handled to make
the analysis of various data sets easier such as topography, land use, vegetation density,
hydrodynamic fields...

3. Sediment routing on partially non-alluvial beds

In depth-averaged flow models, the flow depth is computed numerically as a result of time
integration of the continuity equation, usually using an explicit algorithm. Therefore, it is
well known that, on drying cells, the computed value may be found negative, which is
physically unsound. This issue may be handled by properly modifying computed depths,
while keeping the mass conservation still verified. A number of models addressing
somehow this issue have been reported (Begnudelli and Sanders 2007 ; Gourgue et al. 2009),
but without necessarily achieving exact mass conservation. Numerical schemes consistently
keeping the computed water depth positive exist (Audusse et al. 2004), but they do not
address sediment transport issues, particularly on partly rigid beds.
A very similar difficulty arises when dealing with sediment transport and morphodynamic
modelling on partly non-alluvial beds, where the nature of the soil makes erosion
impossible in some locations (bedrock, armoured layer, concrete structure). In such cases,
when the computed value for bottom elevation becomes lower than the level of the top of
the non-erodible layer, the computed value also needs to be modified without
compromising the global mass balance of sediments.
This numerical treatment of sediment routing on partly non-alluvial beds remains complex,
since erosion must be prevented from extending deeper than the level of the non-alluvial
bed whereas neither deposition nor sediment discharge should be constraint.
Details on this computational issue are hardly available in literature. Some existing
modelling procedures for bed-load transport over non-erodible layers assume, for instance,
a progressive decrease of the bed-load transport when sediment level becomes close to the
fixed bottom (Struiksma 1999). Nonetheless, there remains a lack of transparency on how
many existing models deal with sediment transport on non-alluvial beds and, especially, on
possible mass conservation errors introduced by the treatment.
In this section, we recall the approach suggested by Struiksma (1999); then we introduce our
original procedure and finally we discuss their relative performance based on three test
cases, among which one is conceptual while the others rely on experimental data.

3.1 Existing vs. original treatment of non-alluvial beds

Struiksma approach
A method to solve the problem of sediment routing on partially rigid bottoms was proposed
by Struiksma (1999). It consists in modifying the customary deterministic bed-load transport
formula qb ,c ( h , u , v ) (such as Meyer-Peter Müller, Schoklitsch, Bagnold, power law ...) as
follows:

⎛ δ (x) ⎞
qb = ψ ⎜ ⎟ q b ,c ( h , u , v ) , (35)
⎝ δ a (h) ⎠
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 13

where δ a is the maximum thickness of alluvium for which the non-erodible layer still
affects the sediment transport, δ is the actual thickness of alluvium (Fig. 3) and ψ is a
function of δ δ a which limits the bed-load transport flux due to the proximity of non-
erodible areas. The thickness value δ a is reported to be approximately equal to half of the
bed form height. For δ = 0 , sediment transport is not possible anymore ( ψ = 0 ); while
for δ = δ a , the presence of the non erodible layer is considered to have no influence on the
bed-load discharge ( ψ = 1 ). Thus, the function ψ monotonously increases between these
two extreme values. The modified bed-load transport formula is then used in the Exner
equation. A disadvantage of this method may rise from some lack of generality because
δ a remains a calibration parameter which may vary depending on topography, water depth,
flow regime...

Alluvial Non alluvial

δa

zb δ

z*
Non-erodible

Fig. 3. Definition of the concept of alluvial and non-alluvial areas

Original procedure
Our original method introduced here uses the depth-averaged two-phase flow model
presented in section 2. We focus here on bed-load transport on a partially non-alluvial
bottom. Thus, the concentration is set to zero in equation (23) and the set of equations (20)-
(24) becomes:

∂ h ∂hu ∂hv
+ + =0 (36)
∂t ∂x ∂y

∂hu ∂hu 2 ∂hu v ∂ ⎛ h2 ⎞ ∂z

+ + + ⎜⎜ g sin θ z ⎟⎟ + h g sin θ z b
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂x ⎝ 2 ⎠ ∂x
(37)
τ 1 ⎛ ∂hσ x ∂hτ xy ⎞
= bx ΔΣ + h g sin θ x + ⎜ + ⎟,
ρ ρ ⎜⎝ ∂x ∂y ⎟
⎠

∂hv ∂hu v ∂hv 2 ∂ ⎛ h2 ⎞ ∂z

+ + + ⎜⎜ g sin θ z ⎟⎟ + h g sin θ z b
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂y ⎝ 2 ⎠ ∂y
(38)
τ by 1 ⎛ ∂hτ xy ∂hσ y ⎞
= ΔΣ + h g sin θ y + ⎜ + ⎟,
ρ ρ ⎜⎝ ∂x ∂y ⎟
⎠
14 Sediment Transport

Step 1 x

Step 2
x

Final step
x

Flux Modified flux

Non physical height Corrected height

Physical height

Fig. 4. Three-step procedure

∂ ∂q ∂q by
⎡( 1 − p ) zb ⎦⎤ + bx + =0. (39)
∂t ⎣ ∂x ∂y

As emphasized at the beginning of this section, the difficulties in the numerical treatment of
drying cells and non-alluvial beds are highly similar. This is notably due to the formal
similarity in the mathematical formulation of Exner equation (39) and of the flow continuity
equation (36). Our original approach consists thus in developing a single procedure to
correct in a similar way the non-physical sediment level and flow depth. The general
mathematical form for the continuity equations (i.e. continuity equation for the mixture and
Exner equation for bed-load) can be written as:

∂s ∂f 1 ∂f 2
+ + =0 (40)
∂t ∂x ∂y

where s can be the sediment level or the water depth; f 1 and f 2 are fluxes in the two
directions (sediment bed-load unit discharge or flow unit discharge). Thanks to an efficient
iterative resolution of the continuity equations, correct mass and momentum conservation
are ensured using a three-step procedure at each time step:
• Equation (40) is evaluated (step 1 in Fig. 4).
• Algorithm detects whether the current height as given by Equation (40) is under the
level of the reference height (zero water depth or fixed bottom level). Thus, it highlights
the occurrence of computed non physical configurations such as negative water depth
and erosion of non-erodible bottom. Then, in cells with non physical configurations, the
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 15

outflow discharge is reduced (step 2 in Fig. 4 ; dashed arrow) such that the computed
height becomes strictly equal to the reference height ( f 1,out out
new = f 1 .α and
out out
f 2, new = f 2 .α ).
• Since these flux corrections may in turn induce another non physical configuration in
neighbouring cells, the two points above are repeated iteratively. At the end, this leads
to a configuration in which the heights are all in their physical range, as shown in final
step in Fig. 4.

3.2 Model verification

The depth-averaged two-phase flow model combined with the algorithm of flow depth and
sediment level correction has been verified using several benchmarks leading to
configurations with negative water depth or sediment transport over non-erodible bottoms.
After a clear-water flow standard benchmark (dam break flow travelling on a sharp bump),
scouring of a trench initially filled with sediments as well as the migration of a trench
passing over a fixed bump have been tested.
Dam break flow travelling on a sharp bump
Water at rest is assumed to be initially stored in a prismatic reservoir 15.5 m long, 0.75 m
wide and 0.75 m high (Fig. 5). In the downstream part of the channel, a sharp symmetric
bump is located 13 m downstream of the dam, followed by water at rest with a maximum
depth of 0.15 m. The bump is made of two 13.33 % slopes, with a maximum height of 0.4 m.
The computational domain is a 38-m long straight channel limited by two fixed walls
(Fig. 5). At time t = 0 s, the dam is assumed to break, releasing the previously stored water
which flows downstream leading eventually to wetting and subsequently drying of the
bump crest.

Fig. 5. Sketch of the experimental setup and location of the gauges.

The numerical simulation was carried out with a cell size of 0.1 m and a Manning coefficient
equal to 0.005 s/m1/3. The computed results are compared with experimental results (Morris
and Galland 2000) obtained at four gauges (G4, G10, G13, G20 in Fig. 5). This experiment
has been repeated twice (Experimental 1 and 2 in Fig. 6).
Fig. 6 shows that the computed depth remains always positive and that the numerical
predictions match measurements throughout the considered time range. In particular, the
reflexion wave reaching gauge G4 after approximately 13.5 seconds in the experiments is
accurately reproduced in the numerical simulation; both in terms of wave velocity and wave
height. The slightly noticeable temporal shift between experimental data and computed
results may be attributed to the non-instantaneous collapse of the dam in the experimental
setup. Finally, mass is conserved in the simulations, as verified by comparing water
volumes between initial and final times: ΔVwater ≈ 6 × 10-10 m³/m.
16 Sediment Transport

Fig. 6. Evolution of the water depth at gauges.

0.4

Fixed bottom
0.35
t=0 s
0.3 t=2 s
t=4 s
0.25 t=10 s
t=20 s
0.2 t=100 s
Height (m)

0.15

0.1

0.05

-0.05

-0.1
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
Channel length (m)

Fig. 7. Bed evolution in the hypothetical test case.

Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 17

Scour of a trench initially filled with sediments

A prismatic channel is considered here, with a 1.1 m-wide rectangular cross section. The
length of the channel is 16 m. The cell size used in the longitudinal direction is 0.2 m. The
rigid bottom corresponds to the level zero throughout the channel, except in a 4.5 m-long
trench located at mid-length of the channel, where the rigid bottom elevation is set to - 0.1 m
(Hervouet et al. 2003). This trench is filled with sediments up to the level zero (see Fig. 7). In
this hypothetical test case, the flow conditions are kept artificially constant in time. The flow
discharge is assumed to increase linearly from 0 to 10 m²/s between the abscissa x = 0m and
the abscissa x = 8m; and decrease linearly from 10 to 0 m²/s between the abscissa x = 8m and
the abscissa x = 16m. The water depth is set everywhere equal to 2 m. The Manning
coefficient is taken equal to n = 0.04 s/m1/3. The Engelund-Hansen bed-load transport
formula is used in this case, in which the grain diameter is assumed equal to d50 = 0.3 mm,
the specific gravity of sediments is s = 2.65 and the porosity of bed material is p = 0.375.
The computed time evolution of the bed profile is shown in Fig. 7. After 100 seconds, the
bed profile does not move anymore. Although no direct comparison data are available, the
model is found to perform satisfactorily since the computed bed level always remains above
the level of the non erodible bottom and no mass conservation error is found in the
computational results.
Evolution of a trench over a fixed bump
This test case considers the evolution of a trench passing over a non erodible bump. The
length of the straight channel is 11.5 m and its width is 0.2 m. A bump is located in the
middle of the domain while an approximately 0.04 m deep and 2 m long trench is excavated
in the alluvial bed upstream. The grain diameter is taken equal to 0.45 mm. The cell size is
0.1 m. The computed bed-load transport law is assumed to be a power function of the water
velocity: qb = m u5. The hydrodynamic and morphodynamic conditions are detailed in Table
1. Coefficient m in Table 1 was used as a tuning parameter to reproduce the propagation of
the front of the trench over the first two meters in the upstream section (Struiksma 1999).
Two experiments were carried out. In Test n°1, the thickness of alluvium on the bump is
small while in test n°2, the thickness is zero. We can also observe that the two fixed bumps
and the two trenches have different shapes.
Comparisons between numerical and experimental results are shown in Fig. 8. For both test-
cases, experimental data are scattered but the overall agreement with numerical predictions
is found satisfactory. Our new algorithm performs well since the sediment level is never
computed under the level of non erodible bottom, with a mass conservation error of the
order of the floating-point accuracy.

Quantity Unit T1 T2
Discharge l/s 9.2 9.2
Mean water depth m 0.106 0.106
Sediment transport (including pores) l/h 4.0 4.4
Coefficient of sediment transport formula (m) 10-4 s4/m³ 3.6 4.0
Water surface slope mm/m 1.75 1.75
Chézy coefficient m1/2/s 31.8 31.8
Table 1. Hydrodynamic and morphodynamic conditions for two tests T1 and T2.
18 Sediment Transport

Computations however overpredict erosion depth downstream of the non erodible bump.
This may result from the simplified transport capacity formula used, accounting neither for
an explicit threshold for transport inception nor for gravity-induced sediment transport.
Vertical accelerations might also play a part in this region. Results of T1 and T2 also reveal
that the computed sediment level on the bump is underpredicted. The deeper sediment
layer found experimentally may result from the medium gravels used to build the bump
(non erodible under considered hydraulic conditions) leading to a high bed roughness.

Bed profile after 1 hour Bed profile after 1 hour

t=0 s
0.24 0.24
Height (m)

t=tend
0.22 Fixed bottom 0.22
0.2 Experimental data
0.2

2 4 6 8 10 2 4 6 8 10
4 hours 4 hours

0.24 0.24
Height (m)

0.22 0.22
0.2 0.2

2 4 6 8 10 2 4 6 8 10
6 hours 6 hours

0.24
0.24
Height (m)

0.22 0.22

0.2 0.2

2 4 6 8 10 2 4 6 8 10
8 hours 8 hours

0.24 0.24
Height (m)

0.22 0.22
0.2 0.2

2 4 6 8 10 2 4 6 8 10
10 hours 10 hours

0.24 0.24
Height (m)

0.22 0.22
0.2
0.2
2 4 6 8 10 2 4 6 8 10
12 hours 12 hours

0.24 0.24
Height (m)

0.22 0.22
0.2 0.2
2 4 6 8 10 2 4 6 8 10
Channel length (m) Channel length (m)

Fig. 8. Time evolution of the longitudinal bed profiles (T1, left and T2, right)

4. Application of the two-phase flow model for hyperconcentrated flows

The two-phase flow model for fluid-sediment mixtures presented in section 2 has also been
used to study hyperconcentrated flows, including granular flows induced by mass failures
or collapse of tailing dams on a rigid basal surface. Hyperconcentrated flows exhibit non-
Newtonian behaviour and shear stress may highly depend on the concentration, properties
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 19

and dimensions of the solid particles. Two different rheological models, involving both a
yield stress, are investigated, namely Bingham and frictional fluid models. In the former
case, also referred to as linear viscoplastic model, once the yield stress is exceeded, the shear
stress is proportional to the shear rate like in viscous flows. In the later model, yield stress
depends on the pore pressure following a Coulomb-type friction law.
This section focuses first on the necessary rheological models (subsection 4.1), including
their appropriate formulation for inclusion into a depth-averaged flow model. Next, the set
of governing equations is recast and the numerical treatment of the yield stress is discussed
(subsection 4.2). The model has eventually been validated by comparisons with analytical
solutions, previous numerical results and field observations, as detailed in subsection 4.3.

4.1 Rheological models for hyperconcentrated flows

In contrast with flows generally encountered in fluvial hydraulics, dominant stresses in
hyperconcentrated flows usually stem not from turbulence but mainly from collisional and
frictional interactions between particles. Generalized rheological fluid models are presented
hereafter, both in their 3D formulation and adapted for depth-averaged modelling.
General formulation
We first briefly introduce examples of rheological models in the particular case of a simple
shear flow, and then we address general three-dimensional configurations.
When a Newtonian fluid undergoes simple shear, the internal shear stress (τ) evolves
linearly with the shear rate ( γ = du / dz): τ = μ du/dz, where μ denotes the dynamic
viscosity of the fluid. Contrarily, shear stress in non-Newtonian fluids evolves non-linearly
with the shear rate. Besides, the fluid may additionally be characterized by a yield stress τ0
(Fig. 9), below which the fluid does not move, despite the application of shear stress.
Bingham model is an example of yield stress fluid model, with shear stress evolving linearly
as a function of the shear rate beyond the threshold (linear visco-plastic model). This
corresponds to a particular case of the more general Herschel-Bulkley formulation (Fig. 9).

Fig. 9. Shear stress as a function of shear rate for yield stress fluids.
20 Sediment Transport

More generally, a rheological fluid model takes the following tensor form:

σ = − pI + F ( D ) (41)

with σ the stress tensor within the fluid, p the pressure, D the shear rate tensor, and F a
function to be specified depending upon the characteristics of the water-sediment mixture.
The shear rate tensor is defined as:

1 ⎛ ∂ui ∂u j ⎞ with i, j = x, y, z, (42)

Dij = ⎜ + ⎟
2 ⎜⎝ ∂x j ∂xi ⎟⎠

where xi and ui respectively designate spatial coordinates and velocity components.

A standard simplification for isotropic and incompressible fluids consists in specifying the
general functional relationship F in the form of a scalar function φ1 (Quecedo et al. 2004),
depending only on the second invariant of the shear rate (I2,D), the first being zero as a result
of the fluid incompressibility (I1,D = tr D = 0):

σ = − pI + φ1 ( I 2 ,D ) D with I 2,D =
1
2
( )
tr D 2 . (43)

Generally speaking, the function depends upon multiple factors, such as solid
concentration, possible cohesive effects, pore pressures… The Herschel-Bulkley model (non-
linear viscoplastic model) is a specific case where the function involves three parameters:
yield stress τ0, dynamic viscosity μ, and the Herschel Bulkley exponent n (n ≤ 1):

⎛ τ n−1 ⎞
σ = − pI + ⎜ 0 + 2 μ 4 I 2,D 2 ⎟D (44)
⎜ I 2,D ⎟
⎝ ⎠
and can in turn be particularized by choosing n = 1 to obtain the linear viscoplastic model:

⎛ τ ⎞
σ = − pI + ⎜ 0 + 2 μ ⎟ D . (45)
⎜ I 2,D ⎟
⎝ ⎠
Also referred to as Bingham fluid model, it involves only two parameters, assumed
constant: viscosity μ and yield stress τ0. In particular, models (44) and (45) have been
applied to simulate, respectively, debris flows (e.g. Kaitna and Rickenmann 2007) and
mudflows (e.g. Laigle and Coussot 1997), but also waste dump failures (e.g. Jeyapalan et al.
1983...).
Depth-averaged formulations for Bingham fluids
Similarly to all standard hydraulic resistance formulae developed for uniform flows, the
depth-averaged formulation of the Bingham model is derived here assuming simple shear
flow, consistently with Pastor et al. (2004).
Following notations from Fig. 1, the velocity field in a simple shear flow may be written:

u = U ( z ) cos α v = U ( z ) sin α w=0 (46)

where α represents the angle of the flow direction with respect to x- axis. Accounting for this
particular velocity field, definition (42) enables to write out in full the shear rate tensor:
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 21

⎛ 1 dU ⎞
⎜ 0 0 cos α ⎟
⎜ 2 dz ⎟
1 dU
D = ⎜⎜ 0 0 sin α ⎟⎟ (47)
2 dz
⎜ ⎟
⎜ 1 dU cos α 1 dU
sin α 0 ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎝ 2 dz 2 dz ⎠
as well as its second invariant:

2
I 2,D =
1
2
( ) 1 ⎛ dU ⎞
tr D 2 = ⎜ ⎟ .
4 ⎝ dz ⎠
(48)

Direct application of the rheological model (45) provides the stress tensor:

⎛ ⎛ dU ⎞ ⎞
⎜ −p 0 ⎜τ 0 + μ ⎟ cos α ⎟
⎛ ⎞ ⎜ ⎝ dz ⎠ ⎟
⎜ τ ⎟ ⎜ ⎛ dU ⎞ ⎟
σ = − pI + ⎜ 0 + 2 μ ⎟ = ⎜ 0 −p ⎜τ 0 + μ ⎟ sin α ⎟ (49)
⎜⎜ 1 dU ⎟⎟ ⎜ ⎝ dz ⎠ ⎟
⎝ 2 dz ⎠ ⎜⎛ dU ⎞ ⎛ dU ⎞ ⎟
⎜ ⎜τ 0 + μ ⎟ cos α ⎜τ 0 + μ ⎟ sin α −p ⎟
⎝ ⎝ dz ⎠ ⎝ dz ⎠ ⎠
The depth-averaged flow model used hereafter (subsection 4.2) involves the following
expressions, derived from the deviatoric part σ′ of the stress tensor:
• depth-averaged normal stresses σ xx ′ and σ yy ′ , as well as shear stress σ xy
′ ;
• components τ bx and τ by of the bed shear stress τ b , obtained from: τ b = σ ⋅ n .
The deviatoric part σ′ of the stress tensor is defined by: σ = - p I + σ′.
In the particular case of simple shear flow on a plane (n = [0 0 1]T), relation (49) leads to the
following results:
• depth-averaged stresses are equal to zero: σ xx ′ = σ yy
′ = σ xy′ = 0,
• bed shear stress is given by:

dU
τb = τ0 + μ . (50)
dz zb

This latter result, in particular dU/dz, must be expressed as a function of depth-averaged

velocity, the primitive unknown of the depth-averaged model. To this end, integrating twice
(50) over the flow depth, enables to obtain successively the velocity profile and the depth-
averaged velocity, as detailed below.
In a simple shear flow, shear stress within the fluid varies linearly with depth:

⎛ z − zb ⎞
τ ( z) = τ b ⎜ 1 − ⎟. (51)
⎝ h ⎠
Consequently, two flow layers may be distinguished:
• the lower layer: z ≤ zb + h (1-τ0/τb), in which shear stress exceeds yield stress τ0 and a
velocity profile develops,
22 Sediment Transport

• the upper layer: z > zb + h (1-τ0/τb), where stress remains below the yield stress, so that
the fluid moves like a rigid body.
Integrating first the following combination of relations (50) and (51):

⎛ z − zb ⎞ dU dU τ b − τ 0 τ b z − zb
τb ⎜1 − ⎟ = τ0 + μ ⇔ = − , (52)
⎝ h ⎠ dz dz μ μ h
leads to:

τ ( z − zb )
2
τb −τ0 ⎛ τ ⎞
U= ( z − zb ) − b for z ≤ zb + h ⎜ 1 − 0 ⎟
μ μ 2h ⎝ τb ⎠
2
. (53)
τ h⎛ τ ⎞ ⎛ τ ⎞
U = b ⎜1 − 0 ⎟ for z > zb + h ⎜ 1 − 0 ⎟
2μ ⎝ τb ⎠ ⎝ τb ⎠
The depth-averaged velocity may subsequently be deduced from (53):

z0 − zb
2
τ h h
⎡ ⎛ τ0 ⎞ ⎤ τ bh 1 ⎛ τ 0 ⎞ ⎛ τ ⎞
∫ 2 μ z0∫−zb ⎝
2
u= b ⎢ 2 ⎜ 1 − ⎟η − η ⎥ dη + ⎜ 1 − ⎟ dη with z0 = zb + h ⎜ 1 − 0 ⎟ . (54)
2μ 0 ⎢⎣ ⎝ τb ⎠ ⎦⎥ τb ⎠ ⎝ τb ⎠
h

which eventually leads to the following relationship between bed shear stress τb and depth-
average velocity u :

τ0 6μu
ξ 3 − ( 3 + a )ξ + 2 = 0 with ξ = and a = . (55)
τb hτ 0

In this depth-averaged formulation of Bingham rheological model, bed shear stress is

evaluated numerically from the root of a third order polynomial, using a Newton-Raphson
procedure. Indeed, no convenient analytical solution may be found since it corresponds to a
casus irreducibilis according to Cardano’s formulae (Quecedo et al. 2004).
The Newton-Raphson iterative process is made as effective as possible by appropriately
choosing the first iterate as the root between 0 and 1 of the following second degree
polynomial (Pastor et al. 2004):

3 2 ⎛ 114 ⎞ 65
ξ −⎜ + a ⎟ξ + =0 , (56)
2 ⎝ 32 ⎠ 32
which constitutes the best possible approximation of polynomial (55).
The Bingham model applies if variations in pore pressure remain low, which is verified in
two extreme cases: either high permeability of the mixture (pore pressures dissipate fast due
to a long runout time compared to the consolidation time) or low permeability of the
mixture (pore pressures hardly vary during runout).
Depth-averaged formulations for frictional fluids
Compared to the Bingham model, in the pure frictional fluid model the viscous term cancels
(μ = 0) and the yield stress depends on effective pressure in the material through a Mohr-
Coulomb type relation:
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 23

τ 0 = p′ tan φ ′ = ( p − pw ) tan φ ′ (57)

where p′ denotes effective pressure, pw pore-pressure and φ′ the effective friction angle.
Hence relation (57) directly provides the bed shear stress, with no double integration being
required, given that neither mixture velocity nor velocity gradients intervene directly in the
expression:

τ b = p′b tan φ ′ = ( pb − pw,b ) tan φ ′ . (58)

The frictional fluid model may be combined with a simple consolidation model (Hutchinson
1986), applying an exponential decrease in pore-pressure over time:

⎛ −
t ⎞ ⎛ −
t ⎞
τ 0 = p′b tan φ ′ = pb ⎜ 1 − ru0 e Tc ⎟ tan φ ′ = ρ gh ⎜ 1 − r 0 e Tc
u
⎟ tan φ ′ , (59)
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎝ ⎠ ⎝ ⎠
where ru0 represents the ratio between pore-pressure and initial pressure and Tc represents
the characteristic consolidation time (Hungr 1995), given by:

4 hs2 k
Tc = with c v = , (60)
π 2c v mvγ

with cv, k and mv denoting, respectively, the consolidation coefficient, the permeability of the
material and the compressibility coefficient. The frictional fluid model has been used
notably to simulate waste dump failures (Pastor et al. 2002).

4.2 Governing equations

We present here a particularized form of model (20)-(22) suitable for simulating
hyperconcentrated flows on rigid basal surfaces. Numerical implementation of rheological
models involving a yield stress is also detailed.
Depth-averaged two-phase model for hyperconcentrated flows
Water density ρw, solid density ρs and solid fraction C are assumed constant; so that the
continuity equation (20) becomes simply:

∂h ∂hu ∂hv
  + + =0, (61)
∂t ∂x ∂y

in which the net erosion rate eb has been set to zero since the basal surface is assumed non-
erodible.
Similarly, momentum equations become:

∂hu ∂hu 2 ∂hu v ∂ ⎛ h2 ⎞ ∂z τ (62)

+ + + ⎜⎜ g sin θ z ⎟⎟ + hg sin θ z b = bx ΔΣ + hg sin θ x ,
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂x ⎝ 2 ⎠ ∂x ρm

∂hv ∂hu v ∂hv 2 ∂ ⎛ h2 ⎞ ∂z τ by

+ + + ⎜⎜ g sin θ z ⎟⎟ + hg sin θ z b = ΔΣ + hg sin θ y . (63)
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂y ⎝ 2 ⎠ ∂y ρm
24 Sediment Transport

( )
where the mixture density ρm = ρ w 1 + ΔsC has been introduced. Terms involving depth-
averaged stresses have all been lumped into the flow resistance terms involving τb.
Numerical treatment of the yield stress
If a kinematic or diffusive wave model was used, the yield stress could be treated in a
straightforward way through the algebraic relation providing velocity: when the yield stress
exceeds the bed or surface gradient, velocity remains zero.
In contrast, in the case of a dynamic wave model such as used here, velocity components are
evaluated from the numerical integration of partial differential equations and the accounting
for the yield behaviour of the material is less straightforward, in particular in
multidirectional configurations.
The main point in the numerical treatment of the yield stress consists in preventing this
yield stress to cause velocity reversal, whereas such a reversal should not be prevented if it
results from the action of other contributions in the equations such as adverse topographic
slope. More precisely, evaluation of velocity components at each time-step is split into three
stages:
1. firstly, a first velocity predictor uw/o is evaluated without taking into account the flow
resistance terms (including yield stress)
2. subsequently, a second predictor uw is evaluated by resolving the complete equations
(62) and (63), including the flow resistance terms.
3. finally, the value of the velocity finally retained depends on the relative position of
vectors uw/o and uw:
a. if their scalar product is positive, the effect of the term of flow resistance
corresponds to a deceleration in flow and the predictor uw/o may be retained as the
new velocity value;
b. if their scalar product is negative, the term of flow resistance results in reversal of
the flow, which is not physically sound because in reality the fluid would stop such
a case; therefore the new velocity value is simply set to zero.

4.3 Model verification

Examples of model verification are presented here, namely a slump test, treated with both
Bingham and frictional fluid rheological models, as well as a case of failure of a real tailing
dam. More model verifications will be detailed in subsequent contributions, enabling to
systematically validate all components of the model, including the purely viscous stresses,
yield stress as well as their one- and two-dimensional implementations.
Slump test
The slump test consists in the sudden release of a cone of material which was previously
confined. For a Bingham fluid, the one-dimensional profile of the material at the end of the
test corresponds to an analytical solution of the system of equations (61)-(62), combined
with the flow resistance formula (55). Indeed, when the flow stops, all velocity components
are zero and only the following terms remain in equation (62), expressing the balance
between the surface slope and the yield stress:

∂ ⎛ h2 ⎞ 2τ 0 x
− ⎜⎜ ρ g ⎟⎟ − τ 0 = 0 ⇒ h = h0 1 − . (64)
∂x ⎝ 2 ⎠ ρ gh0 h0
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 25

This leads to a parabolic free surface profile when the material freezes (Fig. 10), the shape of
which depends on the yield stress τ0 and the initial height of the material h0.
The model has been similarly verified for the frictional fluid rheological model. Numerical
predications could be successfully compared with those from the model by Manganey-
Castelnau (2005).

Fig. 10. Numerical predictions (Bingham model) vs. analytical solution for the slump test.
Gypsum tailing dam
Jeyapalan et al. (1983) described the flow of liquefied mine residues following the failure of
the “Gypsum Dam” in Texas in 1966. The deposits were confined inside a rectangular
reservoir with a depth of 11m at the time of the accident. Following seepage at the toe, a
140m breach opened up in the dike. The flow stretched to over 300m in length, with
velocities in the order of 2.5 to 5 m/s. The material was characterised by a mean diameter of
70 microns and a density of 2,450 kg/m3.
Consistently with Pastor et al. (2002), the simulation has been conducted using the Bingham
fluid rheological model, with a yield stress τ0 = 103 Pa and a viscosity μ = 50 Pa s. The
density of the mixture was estimated at 1,400 kg/m³.
Fig. 11 shows the agreement between the reference results by Pastor et al. (2002) and the
predictions of the model developed here. In particular, a hydraulic jump appears around
t = 60 s, following the stoppage of material situated along the breach axis, while the flow
continues laterally until around t = 120 s in the more upstream part the wave.

5. Conclusion
Numerous issues remain challenging in current modelling capacities of flow, sediment
transport and morphodynamics. In this chapter we have addressed two of them, namely
handling mixed alluvial and non-alluvial beds and modelling hyperconcentrated flows.
Those two topics have been analyzed within an original modelling framework developed by
the authors. It relies on a two-phase flow model set up to describe the flow of water-
sediment mixtures. Increased inertia of the mixture as a result of the sediment concentration
is accounted for in the momentum equations, which is hardly ever the case in currently
26 Sediment Transport

available morphodynamic models. To this end, the local continuity and momentum
equations for the mixture have been depth-averaged without assuming straightaway
particular concentration and velocity profiles, resulting in a generalized formulation of
depth-averaged equations for water-sediment mixtures.

Reference results
Present model Present model
(Pastor et al. 2002)
Axonometry Plan view
Perspective view

Fig. 11. Reference results in perspective (left), axonometric view and plan view of
predictions of the model developed here for the “Gypsum dam” collapse.
In addition, an existing finite volume model for shallow flows has been accommodated to
solve the generalized two-phase model for water-sediment mixtures. The stability of the
extended scheme was demonstrated by Dewals (2006) and the resulting model succeeds in
handling the wide range of time scales involved in practical sediment transport problems
(Dewals et al. 2008a). Indeed, as a result of the flexibility offered in the levels of coupling
Advanced Topics in Sediment Transport Modelling:
Non-alluvial Beds and Hyperconcentrated Flows 27

between flow and sediment transport models, stable and accurate numerical solutions are
obtained in a realistic CPU time for predictions of erosion and sedimentation patterns in the
short, medium or long term, considering both bed-load and suspended load.
The set of governing equations has subsequently been particularized for two specific
configurations, namely bed-load transport on partly non-alluvial beds and rapid runout of
hyperconcentrated flows such as flowslides, mudflows or debris flows.
A unified algorithm with correction on the outward fluxes of the continuity equations in
fluid mixture and sediment layer has been implemented in our two-phase depth-averaged
flow model in order to deal with drying cells and sediment routing over partly non-alluvial
beds. Our original contribution lies here in the unified mathematical treatment of these two
issues. The new procedure has been successfully verified on three test cases, in which the
flow and sediment mass conservation error has been shown to remain of the order of the
floating-point accuracy.
Finally, our two-phase depth-averaged flow model has been adapted to account for the
particular rheology of hyperconcentrated flows, including visco-plasticity and frictional
behaviour influenced by pore pressure. A depth-averaged formulation of these rheological
models has been derived. Based on mass and momentum conservation for the mixture of
sediment and interstitial fluid, the resulting finite volume model has been shown to handle
successfully flow initiation, propagation (including on dry areas) and stoppage consistently
with the yield stress behaviour observed in nature and experiments. An original numerical
treatment of the yield stress has been presented and applies for multidimensional problems,
both for the Bingham fluid and the frictional fluid models. This newly elaborated model has
been verified by comparison with a number of experimental, numerical and field data; and
is readily available for practical applications such as flowslide hazard mapping and
emergency planning. The feasibility and opportunity to develop a rheological model further
integrating the “Bingham fluid” and “frictional fluid” approaches will be explored in future
research.

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Roger, S., Dewals, B. J., Erpicum, S., Schwanenberg, D., Schüttrumpf, H., Köngeter, J., and
Pirotton, M. (2009). "Experimental und numerical investigations of dike-break
induced flows." J. Hydraul. Res., 47(3), 349-359.
Spasojevic, M., and Holly, F. M. (2008). "Two- and thre-dimensional numerical simulation of
mobile-bed hydrodynamics and sedimentation." Sedimentation engineering :
processes, measurements, modeling, and practice, H. G. Marcelo, ed., American
Society of Civil Engineers, 683-761.
Struiksma, N. (1999). "Mathematical modelling of bedload transport over non-erodible
layers." Proceedings of IAHR Symposium on River, Coastal and Estuarine
Morphodynamics, Genova, 6-10.
van Rijn, L. C. (2007). "Unified View of Sediment Transport by Currents and Waves. I:
Initiation of Motion, Bed Roughness, and Bed-Load Transport." Journal of Hydraulic
Engineering, 133(6), 649-667.
van Rijn, L. C., Walstra, R., and Ormondt, M. v. (2007). "Unified View of Sediment Transport
by Currents and Waves. IV: Application of Morphodynamic Model." Journal of
Hydraulic Engineering, 133(7), 776-793.
Walters, R., and Plew, D. (2008). "Numerical modeling of environmental flows using DAM:
Some preliminary results." Acta Geophysica, 56, 918-934.
White, R. (2001). Evacuation of sediments from reservoirs, Thomas Telford.
Wu, W. M., and Wang, S. S. (2000). "Mathematical models for liquid-solid two-phase flow."
Int J Sediment Res, 15(3), 288-298.
 2

Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for

Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies
Vincent Leys1 and Ryan P. Mulligan2
1CBCL Limited Consulting Engineers, Halifax NS
2East Carolina University, Greenville NC
1Canada
2USA

1. Introduction
During the planning phase of coastal development projects, it is often necessary to
determine potential sedimentation and erosion rates. This is particularly relevant at
harbours where dredged channels are proposed, and accurate dredging projections are
crucial for economic feasibility analyses. In addition, new structures that interfere with the
natural processes may have major impacts on the adjacent shoreline.
In this chapter we consider a range of approaches for evaluating sediment transport for
harbour planning studies (section 2), and present two detailed cases from Atlantic Canada.
The sites described are representative of very different coastal environments. They include
Saint John Harbour (section 3), a uniquely dynamic estuary on the Bay of Fundy with huge
tides, a very large river outflow and significant sedimentation of silt and clay presenting
various navigation and dredging challenges. The other site described is located on the sandy
North coast of Prince Edward Island at Darnley Inlet, an exposed area where tides, storms and
sea level rise are continuously reshaping the shoreline and navigation channels (section 4).

2 Prince Edward
New Island
Brunswick

1 Nova
Scotia

Bay of
Fundy Atlantic Ocean

Fig. 1. Location of Saint John Harbour (1) , and Darnley Inlet (2) in Atlantic Canada
32 Sediment Transport

To put the case studies in perspective, a brief summary of approaches for evaluating coastal
sediment transport processes is provided. The approaches include preliminary site
investigations and data collection, basic sediment transport theory, and a range of numerical
modelling techniques that can be applied to determine sediment erosion, transport and
deposition.

2. Approaches for evaluating sediment transport

Engineering studies in natural environments have site specific conditions that require a
unique approach to each problem. Therefore some or all of the following methods may need
to be applied in order to determine the impacts of harbour structures on the
sedimentological environment. Some adverse impacts may include interruption of the net
wave-induced longshore transport causing downdrift erosion, scour at the base of
breakwaters or jetties, silting-up of harbour basins requiring repeated dredging, increased
agitation due to reflected waves, or increased currents through harbour openings. After the
construction of new structures, sediment flows will adjust to a new equilibrium, typically
over a timescale of years. Thus the effects of human-intervention on the coastal environment
are not immediately obvious and coastal developments require careful planning.
Site investigations
Every harbour has a unique combination of structures, environmental forcing conditions,
sediment sources and supply. Site investigations should include:
• Acquisition of bathymetry, water level, wind, wave and sediment properties information;
• Observation of shoreline features to identify erosional/depositional landforms;
• Examination of aerial photographs, which gives a larger scale view of the area and may
allow other landforms to be identified. Analysing a sequence of historical aerial
photography is the first (and oftentimes the most accurate) method to assess sediment
processes and determine rates of change.
As a brief example, sediment flux at Arisaig, on Nova Scotia’s North shore is dominated by
wave-driven longshore transport supplied by sandy cliffs. The original harbour facing the
direction of longshore transport became a natural sand trap. A new breakwater and
extension of existing rock structures were recently considered. Some important aspects
considered in the design process included impacts of episodic major storms, seasonal and
annual climate variability, changes in water levels, and changes in up-drift shoreline use
that affect the sediment supply from beaches, rivers or cliffs.

Fig. 2. Arisaig Harbour, Nova Scotia, 2003.

Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 33

Shoreline contour models

Shoreline contour models simulate the evolution of one bathymetric contour (generally the
shoreline at mean water level). They typically assume uniform grain size, beach profile
shape and depth of closure (the seaward depth at which repeatedly surveyed profiles
intersect). These models, developed for straight sandy coastlines, predate the full
morphological models discussed next. However, within limitations, these models are very
effective for long-term predictions of shoreline change when coastal structures are
introduced or modified. As an example, consider the one-dimensional diffusion equation:

∂y ∂2y
−D 2 =0 (1)
∂t ∂x
where y is the cross-shore coordinate, x is the alongshore coordinate, t is time and D
(longshore diffusivity) is related to the sediment transport rate, beach profile shape and
wave conditions. The equation can be solved analytically (Pelnard-Considere 1956, Dean
2002) and used to model the progressive shoreline evolution from an initially straight
shoreline, assuming steady-state wave and sediment conditions and one structure
perpendicular to the coast. As shown in Fig. 3, accretion against the up-drift side of the
structure increases with time until the contour intersects the end of the structure, at which
time bypassing begins.

Fig. 3. Example sediment accretion along a groin estimated by a 1-D shoreline change
model.
More sophisticated 1D models have been developed with the capability of simulating the
beach response to the introduction of different coastal structures such as groins, detached
breakwaters or seawalls. The shoreline models LITPACK (DHI 2008) and GENESIS
(Generalized Model for Simulating Shoreline Change, (Gravens et al 1991)) simulate long-
term averaged shoreline change produced by spatial and temporal differences in wave
parameters and longshore sediment transport. The NLINE model (Dabees and Kamphuis,
2000) simulates beach evolution for multiple contour lines.
Hydrodynamic and morphological models
Morphodynamic models rely on numerical routines that explicitly predict the wave and
hydrodynamic forcing, and sediment transport in two or three dimensions. The
hydrodynamic models numerically solve the fluid momentum and continuity equations in
34 Sediment Transport

order to predict water level changes, circulation and transport driven by winds, waves,
tides, river discharge or density forcing. Some examples include Delft3D (Lesser et al, 2004),
the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS, Shchepetkin and McWilliams, 2005), Coupled
MIKE21 (DHI 2009) and FVCOM (Chen et al, 2006). An example using Delft3D is shown on
Fig. 4. Examples using MIKE by DHI are presented in the detailed case studies following
this section. Each uses different numerical techniques, includes different features and
operates on different types of computational grids (i.e. rectangular, curvilinear or
unstructured).

Fig. 4. Example of longshore sediment transport rate and resulting bathymetry along a
sandy beach one year after introducing a groin, predicted using the Delft3D model.
Separately, a wave model is employed to predict wave transformation. The wave model is
either a phase-averaging (spectral) or a phase-resolving (Boussinesq) model. The wave and
hydrodynamic models typically operate on different timescales but are coupled such that
they communicate at specified time steps. The wave model is used to propagate wave
energy throughout the model domain, and predict changes to the wave energy distribution
by refraction, diffraction, wind generation, non-linear energy transfers, dissipation (e.g.
white-capping, bottom friction, and breaking) and interaction with currents. Examples of
phase-averaged models include the SWAN model (Simulating Waves Nearshore, Booij et al,
1999), and MIKE21 SW (DHI 2009). Examples of phase-resolving models include CGWAVE
(Demirbilek & Panchang 1998) and MIKE21 BW (DHI 2009). Phase-averaged models are
typically more computationally efficient, since larger spatial resolution, larger time steps
and simpler physics are used. Phase-resolving models are typically better at handling
reflection and diffraction which become important processes near coastal structures and
inside harbour basins.
The morphological models are coupled with the hydrodynamic models by including
sediment equations to predict bottom shear stresses and track sediment concentrations
through the model domain. Morphological models typically use a bed shear stress
formulation in the form:

τ b = ρC Dub ub (2)

where ρ is water density, ub is the is the horizontal velocity above the bed, and CD is a drag
coefficient. The drag coefficient is proportional to von Karman’s constant, the thickness of
the bed layer, and the roughness length of the bed. The bed roughness length is used to
parameterize sub-grid scale roughness features including bedforms and individual grains.
Other sediment routines parameterize sediment processes, such as roughness in the bottom
boundary layer, bedload and suspended-load transport, particle fall velocity and
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 35

flocculation, with different formulations for cohesive and non-cohesive sediments. Sediment
is eroded, transported, deposited and the bed morphology evolves with time. Examples are
the Community Sediment Transport Model (CSTM, Warner et al, 2008), Delft3D and
MIKE 3.

3. Saint John Harbour

Background
The marine physical environment of Saint John Harbour is very complex and dynamic. Key
parameters such as water level, density and flow are highly variable in time and space due
to the interaction of large semi-diurnal tides (of maximum range 8.9m) with strong
freshwater discharge from the Saint John River, one of the largest rivers in Eastern Canada.
The large tides are due to the fact that the Gulf of Maine-Bay of Fundy system is close to
being in resonance with the semi-diurnal forcing from the North Atlantic (Greenberg 1990).
The unusual characteristic of Saint John Harbour is that the large tides are being countered
by particularly strong river outflow. The river discharges into the Harbour across a 200 m
wide ridge and then through a narrow rock gorge (Fig. 6), creating spectacular rapids that

Fig. 5. Study area and bathymetry: Reversing Falls and adjacent channel reaches (left), Saint
John Harbour on the Bay of Fundy (right).

Fig. 6. The Reversing Falls gorge at ebb tide, looking Northeast (16/11/2006).
36 Sediment Transport

reverse direction with the tides. The Reversing Falls only allow a relatively small volume
discharge in and out over a tidal cycle. This hydraulic control causes a significant difference
in the water levels on either side of the constriction and locally strong currents alternating in
direction.
Dredging records
Downstream of the Falls, the Port of Saint John requires maintenance dredging of fine
sediments settling along piers and in navigation channels. Target dredging areas for the Port
of Saint John are shown in Fig. 7, along with summary grain size distributions. The
dredging areas include channels in the Outer Harbour and Courtenay Bay, and deepwater
berths in the City Harbour.

Gravel Sand Silt Clay

SW Marine Warf

NE Marine Warf

Long Wharf

East Piers

West Piers
Courtenay Bay
Channel
Main Channel

0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

Fig. 7. Saint John Harbour dredging areas and grain size distributions (2006 data – source:
Saint John Port Authority).
Measured dredging volumes represent the best available ‘benchmark’ data for estimating a
mean annual sedimentation rate. However the extrapolation from scow-measured dredging
volumes to sedimentation rate carries considerable uncertainty due to the bulking factor.
The bulking factor is the ratio of dredged volume immediately after deposition in the scow,
to the in-situ volume of the same mass of material. As a general rule of thumb, the smaller
the grain size, the larger the bulking factor: sand can bulk up 1.0 to 1.2, silt 1.2 to 1.8 and clay
1.5 to 3.0 (USACE 2004). In addition, actual dredging areas vary from year to year, and may
be less than target areas, possibly by a factor of 2 or 3. Ranges for sedimentation rates have
been developed based on dredging records weighed with the above uncertainty factors. The
calculated ranges represent averages in time and space, which could be exceeded in any
given year or location. It is estimated that the sedimentation rates range from 0.2 to
1m/year, the higher end of the bracket applying to the deepwater berths in the City
Harbour. The dredging records show considerable variability in the quantities from year to
year, resulting in the wide range.
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 37

Description of sedimentation processes

The ample sediment supply combined with the hydrodynamic regime cause extensive
sedimentation in dredging areas. These areas tend to decelerate sediment-bearing flows, and
represent a departure from a natural equilibrium state where sedimentation is balanced by
erosion. The primary local sediment sources include the River, the seabed of the Bay of
Fundy and eroding coastlines. An extensive review of harbour sedimentation (or ‘siltation’)
mechanisms is provided by Winterwerp (2005). Sediment transport modelling must resolve
the following three major site-specific processes:
1. Density currents - The density difference between tidally-driven salt water inflow and
freshwater river outflow causes an estuarine circulation pattern characterized by a
mean seaward surface flow and a mean up-harbour bottom flow. The residual dense
bottom flows carry silt that is deposited in the more stagnant areas. Sedimentation in
dredging areas is due in most part to marine silt carried into the Harbour by the bottom
density current (Neu 1960). Notably, yearly variations in river outflow and suspended
concentrations in the river do not correspond to variations in the measured dredged
quantities.
2. Tidal exchange - Water within a harbour basin is replaced by freshwater from the river
water on the ebb tide, and then by saline water on the flood tide (with the exception of
the near-surface where a layer of freshwater persists). This efficient and continuous
exchange mechanism is caused both by the very large tidal range and by the large river
discharge. Settling then occurs wherever weaker currents allow. The sedimentation rate
depends on a complex array of variables including tidal prism (volume entering the
harbour), trapping efficiency, suspended sediment concentrations, dry bed density and
settling rates vs. local currents. Of these variables, settling rate probably has the highest
variability and influence.
3. Horizontal eddy exchange - During peak flows, suspended sediments are transported in
the lee of protruding wharf structures due to energetic residual eddies shed from the
structures. Deposition occurs where weak currents and high settling rates allow.
Hydrodynamic modelling
The Danish Hydraulic Institute’s MIKE3 finite-volume model was implemented to better
understand flow patterns and sediment transport in the harbour, and to assist in the
evaluation of maintenance dredging requirements for future harbour facilities. The
hydrodynamic module solves the hydrostatic momentum and continuity equations,
including the effects of turbulence and variable density, and the conservation equations for
salinity in three dimensions together with the equation of state of sea water relating the local
density to salinity, temperature and pressure. The model also features a coupled advection-
diffusion algorithm to model the evolution of suspended sediment concentrations, which
serve as input to the sediment transport module.
The model domain consists of an unstructured mesh of 2,590 triangular elements in each
horizontal layer. In the vertical dimension, the model was set-up using up to 23 layers in the
deepest areas. The upper three layers were defined as compressible ‘sigma’ layers following
the oscillations in water level. Below a fixed depth of 1m below low tide, the model used 20
strictly horizontal 2m thick layers to better resolve the density stratification. The model
domain (Fig. 8) was set-up to include all dredging areas, with its upstream boundary 500m
downstream of the Reversing Falls. The upstream boundary conditions for this model
(water level, salinity and suspended sediment concentrations) were obtained by extracting
38 Sediment Transport

data from a calibrated, non-hydrostatic and higher-resolution MIKE3 hydrodynamic model

of the Reversing Falls channel developed for a previous study (Leys 2007). At the Bay of
Fundy boundary, tidal predictions were used as well as time-series of vertical salinity and
suspended sediment concentrations constructed from field observations by Neu (1960).

Depth [m above
low tide]
4
0
-4
-8
-12
-16
-20
-30

Fig. 8. Saint John Harbour Model mesh.

Vertical profiles
The evolution of vertical profiles for key model variables over a tidal cycle is shown on
Fig. 9 at the intersection of the Main Channel and Courtenay Bay channel (see Fig. 7). The
three dimensional circulation patterns are evidenced by salinity and Total Suspended
Sediment (TSS) fields over a mean tidal cycle. During flood tide and at high tide, the bottom
layer of denser, saline and sediment-laden tidal water extends into the channel and flows
opposite the seaward surface current. On the ebb and low tide, saltwater is gradually
replaced from surface to bottom by freshwater from the river which carries coarser and
lower sediment content. The model results are consistent with field data, but show a
stratified phase of shorter duration.
Residual current patterns
Residual bottom current patterns (i.e. averaged over a tidal cycle) are important as they
govern the movement of the sediment-laden bottom layer. Residual currents over a mean
tidal cycle during summer conditions are presented in Fig. 10. The results indicate that the
mean currents along the bottom move in the up-harbour direction. The modelled bottom
density current in the City Harbour and Courtenay Bay Channel is approximately 0.1m/s,
slightly less than residual currents calculated from summer field measurement by Neu
(1960). Modelled near-surface residual currents for summer conditions correspond well to
past measurements, with values in the order of 0.3 to 0.4 m/s in the City Harbour.
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 39

Fig. 9. Vertical profiles of model fields over one tidal cycle at the intersection of the Main
Channel and Courtenay Bay channel.
Sediment transport model
The DHI MIKE3 Mud Transport Model calculates sediment transport of fine material in
estuaries and coastal areas, for dredging and sedimentation studies. This model was used to
simulate the erosion, transport and deposition of fine grained and cohesive material under
the action of river, tidal and density currents calculated by the hydrodynamic model. Values
for sediment parameters were adjusted within realistic ranges based on field data
(suspended sediment concentrations and dredging records). Two fine sediment fractions
were included in the model, which form the bulk of sediment deposits in dredged areas:
sandy silt and clayey silt. The critical shear stress for deposition and settling velocity were
treated as calibration parameters and the values adopted are listed in Table 1. At the open
40 Sediment Transport

Surface
layer

m/s
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0

Depth=-4m below low tide Depth=-8m below low tide

Fig. 10. Modelled residual flow patterns for summer conditions showing seaward surface
flow from river (top panel) and up-harbour density current at the bottom (bottom panels).
boundaries, time-series of depth-varying suspended sediment concentrations were developed
based on summer data from Neu (1960) and recent additional sampling (Leys 2007).

Fraction 1 Fraction 2
Parameter Comments
Clayey Silt Sandy Silt
Representative For reference – not actually used in
0.005 0.05
grain size [mm] computations
Critical shear At each model time step, erosion or
stress for deposition algorithms are triggered if the
0.01 0.09
deposition bed stress is respectively above or below
[N/m2] critical value
For fine sediment the settling velocity can
vary by several orders of magnitude.
Settling velocity
0.1 1 Flocculation, which generally starts at
[mm/s]
concentrations higher than observed in
typical conditions, was not included.
Table 1. Input sediment characteristics for MIKE3 MT model.
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 41

The model accuracy can only be as good as the accuracy of dredging records used in the
calibration process. Based on the Port dredging records, the estimated error range from the
modelled sedimentation rates is -50% to +100% (i.e., in any given year the actual value could
be twice as low or twice as high as predicted). Under existing conditions the finer fraction
(clayey silt) deposits primarily in the calmer areas, i.e., Courtenay Bay and within
rectangular mooring basins (Fig. 11). The coarser fraction (sandy silt) causes more
deposition in the main channel, and there is still a significant amount that settles alongside
piers. A comparison between deposition quantities for the two fractions over the entire
model area indicates approximately 6 times more mass deposition for the coarser sandy silt
fraction. This indicates that a large proportion of the fine fraction modelled remains in
suspension in the more energetic areas.

Fraction 1 – Clayey silt Fraction 2 – Sandy silt

Fraction 1 Fraction 2
Clayey silt Sandy silt
Settling
velocity 0.1 1
[mm/s]
Critical
shear stress
for deposition
0.01 0.09
[N/m^2]

2.9 11.6
Modelled
mass 2.5 10
deposition 2.1 8.4
[kg/m^2] 1.7 6.8
1.3 5.2
0.9 3.6
0.5 2.0
0.1 0.4

Fig. 11. Modelled mass deposition for two sediment fractions after 15 days.
The large difference in mass deposition between the two fractions is reduced when applying
dry bed density to convert mass deposition into volume and determine the sedimentation
rate. For a given mass accumulation calculated from settling, the dry bed density dictates
the corresponding volume accumulation and therefore sedimentation rate.
Values were selected based on moisture contents of surficial sediment samples varying from
40% to 80% for freshly deposited silt. For example, a given mass deposition of clayey silt in
Courtenay Bay (where dry bed density was assumed low at 200 kg/m3) will result in a
larger thickness than the same mass deposition of sandy silt in the centre of main channel
where dry bed density is likely higher (assumed at 1000 kg/m3).
Modelled sedimentation rates were extrapolated to a yearly basis based on a 2-week model
run, which provides patterns that are generally consistent with annual dredging records for
Port areas (Fig. 12). Sedimentation rates peak within man-made indentations in the
shoreline, and in sections of the dredged channels where currents are lower such as the
Courtenay Bay Channel along the eastern breakwater.
The model also helped understand why observed sedimentation rates in the Port were
uncorrelated with the duration and the intensity of the spring freshet. It was previously
thought that the source of the deposited sediment (River or Bay of Fundy) could influence
the seasonal variations in sedimentation rates. Measurements from Neu (1960) indicate the
42 Sediment Transport

suspended loads from the River during the spring freshet are much greater, on the order of
50 mg/l (comparable to typical bottom tidal loads) as opposed to 10 mg/l or less in the
summer. Observations from the Port Authority indicate that yearly variations in river
outflow do not correspond to observed variations in the dredged quantities. In an attempt to
quantify the source region, modelled suspended sediment was divided into two fractions
based on origin: the River or Harbour boundary. The results indicate that tidal currents
account for more than 50% of the transport to and deposition within the harbour. Typical
spring freshet conditions were also investigated. Conceptual model runs were conducted for
non-reversing flow conditions (when river levels remain above high tide) and with
increased suspended loads from the river boundary. Overall sedimentation rates were
found to be in the same order of magnitude as during tidal, reversing flow conditions.
Under these conditions the absence of prevailing tidal loads is compensated by the increase
in river loads and settling. Continuous non-reversing flow conditions only occur during
typically 2 weeks in the spring. Therefore, the influence of the spring freshet on harbour
sedimentation is likely limited.

Sedimentation
[m/year]
0.7
0.65
0.6
0.55
0.5
0.45
0.4
0.35
0.3
0.25
0.2
0.15
0.1
0.05
0

Fig. 12. Modelled annual sedimentation rate.

The model is presently being used to optimize modifications to selected piers or mooring
basins, taking into account challenges presented by current velocities and sedimentation. As
demonstrated, accumulation rates in new dredging areas can be estimated, within a certain
error range depending on the reliability of dredging records. Predicting yearly variations in
sedimentation over dredging areas of the Port would also be useful for Port users, but
would require a vast amount of additional field data and modelling efforts.
Saint John Harbour provides a good example for fine suspended sediment transport driven
by tidal and density flows within a man-made port. The next case study describes a very
different site where coarser sand transport prevails, driven by waves and tidal currents at a
natural inlet without coastal structures.
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 43

4. Darnley inlet
Darnley inlet is located on the sandy North Shore of Prince Edward Island. The coast is
formed of dunes, barrier islands and tidal inlets, and it is particularly sensitive to storms
and sea level rise (Forbes et al 2004, McCulloch et al 2002). At various tidal inlets, dynamic
coastal processes occurring on very different time-scales (tides, storms, long-term sea level
rise) play an active role in sediment transport, presenting short-term navigation challenges
and causing a long-term evolution in the geomorphology.
Malpeque Harbour is located within Darnley Basin (Fig 13). The long winding channel from
the harbour exits through the inlet between two sand spits, then becomes considerably
shallower as it fans out over a shallow sand bar 500 to 600m from the inlet throat. The bar is
referred to as an ‘ebb shoal’ for the greater influence of the ebb tide on sediment transport.
The ebb shoal represents the primary bypassing route for westward sediment transport, and
bi-annual dredging is required at the ebb shoal to ensure navigational safety.
Considerations of the tidal prism (the volume exchanged over a tidal cycle) and longshore
sediment transport have helped to understand historical changes in the inlet location and
dune build-up. In-depth modelling analyses were conducted with a morphological model to
better understand sedimentation at the ebb shoal, and to predict morphologic responses to
channel-training structures such as jetties.

Gulf of St
1935
Lawrence

Darnley
Basin
Malpeque Harbour

1974

Malpeque
Bay

Depth [m]
0 2000
4
8
12
16
20
24
28

Fig. 13. Site location (left) and historical air photos at Darnley Inlet (right) showing beach
evolution, inlet migration and locations of the East and West Spits. The 2008 shoreline is
represented with the orange line.
44 Sediment Transport

Historical evolution
Darnley Inlet is an interesting example of an unstable natural inlet, where the inlet throat
has moved considerably over the past century. In the first half of the 20th century, the inlet
was located at the base of the present West spit (Fig. 13). The old inlet closed in the 1960’s
while the new inlet opened through the East spit. Due to westward net longshore transport
decreasing toward the inlet, the East spit is accreting and the inlet location is presently
migrating westward at a rate of about 14m/year.
Tidal hydrodynamics
The local tides are of mixed type, i.e. with diurnal and semi-diurnal influence. This creates
asymmetries in the hydrodynamic regime (e.g. ebb or flood dominance) that have
implications on sediment transport.
A hydrodynamic model of the inlet was developed using DHI MIKE21 to estimate key inlet
variables that influence sediment dynamics, including tidal prism and ebb or flood
dominance. MIKE21 is a two-dimensional, finite-volume model solving the momentum and
continuity equations over a finite volume mesh (Fig. 14) to simulate hydrodynamic
circulation.

446000 446500 447000 447500 448000

Fig. 14. High-resolution Darnley Inlet model mesh with higher resolution over dredged
channels.
The process of ebb dominance on sediment transport at Darnley Inlet is shown on Fig. 15. In
effect, during at least 60% of the month, there is one dominant ebb tide per day, meaning
that on average, the sand transport direction through the channel is seaward. This is due to
the ebb current being above the threshold for incipient sand motion for a longer period of
time than the flood current. Sand transported away by the ebb tide deposits off the inlet,
forming the ebb shoal.
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 45

Fig. 15. Time-series of modelled current speed during ebb-dominated conditions

Wave-driven sediment transport
Prevailing Northeasterly offshore waves break on a shallow offshore bar (Malpeque Bay’s
ebb shoal) before reaching the inlet where storm wave heights are controlled by water level.
Using spectral wave model MIKE21 SW, it was estimated that significant wave heights
incident to the inlet and adjacent spits are less than 1m when the water level is at or below
high tide. Northeasterly waves arrive at the East spit at a very oblique angle to the shoreline,
causing significant Eastward longshore transport. In contrast, prevailing wave crests arrive
near-perpendicular to the West spit shoreline, causing lower longshore sediment transport
rates.

Hs [m]
0.90
0.78
0.66
0.54
0.42
0.30
0.18
0.06

Fig. 16. Modelled near-shore wave height transformation for offshore waves of significant
height 1m and peak period 8s.
46 Sediment Transport

Potential bulk longshore sediment transport rates were calculated based the standard CERC
(1984) formula, using modelled breaking significant wave height parameters along
representative shoreline reaches. The results are presented on Fig. 17. As a convention, left-
and right-directed longshore transport rates are negative and positive, respectively. The net
transport is the sum of left and right-directed transport rates. It is cautioned that:
• The effect of strong, reversing tidal currents from Malpeque Bay is not included; and
• The sediment transport values shown assume infinite sand supply, which is rarely the
case. In the long-term, the beach sizes and sand masses are constantly adjusting to
gradients in longshore transport rates, which themselves evolve as a function of sand
supply and changing shoreline orientation.

Offshore
ebb shoal

-210 -85

Ebb -161
+60 shoal
-46
-15

Erosion Darnley
Accretion Basin

Fig. 17. Net potential longshore sediment transport rate (1000’s m3/year) based on wave
forcing. The arrows indicate the direction of net transport. Erosion occurs in areas of
increasing transport, while decreasing gradients in longshore transport results in accretion.
Gradients in potential longshore transport rates, caused by changing wave parameters or
shoreline orientation, are used to identify areas of shoreline erosion or accretion and to
explain observed trends:
• The net transport at the inlet is from East to West; the inlet throat location is therefore
likely to continue migrating westward;
• The large differences in potential transport rates between the East and West spits would
cause large deposition volumes into and near the inlet, notably at the ebb shoal;
• The growth of the East spit seen on aerial photographs (Fig. 13) can be explained by the
along-shore gradient in transport potential due to diminishing wave heights;
• The location of the pre-1960’s inlet at the base of the West spit is likely accreting due to
converging shorelines on either side. This would have contributed to the original inlet
closure; and
• Headlands represent eroding sediment sources.
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 47

Empirical tools for assessing inlet stability

Despite the complexities of the physical processes, morphologic characteristics of inlets such
as cross-sectional area at the throat or ebb shoal dimensions have been successfully
correlated to parameters such as tidal prism, wave climate and longshore sediment
transport rate. Empirical relationships have been developed by researchers for sandy inlets
worldwide, the largest available datasets being from the continental U.S. A review of these
predictive tools is provided by Kraus (2008), and those found useful to understanding the
sediment dynamics at Darnley Inlet are applied herein.
Inlet stability can refer to either the cross-sectional area of the channel across the inlet throat,
or to the inlet location. With respect to the former, since the tidal prism must enter and exit
through the relatively constricted inlet, flow increases and sediment is scoured until the inlet
erodes to a stable channel cross sectional area. A natural channel is only stable when it is
both large enough to allow full tidal passage yet small enough so constricted tidal currents
flush the excess sand out. Jarrett (1976) examined the relationship between tidal prism and
inlet throat cross sectional area, based on data at 108 inlets. The relationship derived from
his data is plotted on Fig. 18.

All Inlets
Inlet throat X-section below MWL [m]

95% confidence interval

3
10 No or single jetty
2 jetties
Darnley Inlet

2
10
6 7
10 10
3
Tidal prism [m ]

Fig. 18. Empirical equilibrium cross-sectional area at the inlet throat vs. tidal prism (after
Jarrett 1976).
Darnley Inlet fits the trend line well, and the 270m2 measured cross sectional area is at
near-equilibrium dimensions. Jarrett’s data suggests that parallel jetties may increase the
cross-sectional area by about 40% at the throat (this does not consider channel size over the
ebb shoal).
It is useful to predict the consequences of a departure from the equilibrium cross section.
The question is whether the inlet would tend to close or scour itself back to its equilibrium
shape after a sudden storm-induced deposition reduces the cross section. The analysis
procedure was summarized by Dean and Dalrymple (2002), and is referred to as the
Escoffier method. The results are graphically presented in Fig. 19. The maximum inlet
velocity is calculated based on the Keulegan (1967) equation, accounting for inlet cross-
section, upstream area, friction, entrance and exit losses using a semidiurnal tide.
48 Sediment Transport

Theoretical maximum velocity [m/s]

1.8
Empirical equilibrium velocity [m/s] (Jarrett 1976)
Tidal amplitude ratio Basin/Ocean
1.6
Unstable equilibrium Darnley Inlet
1.4

1.2

0.8

0.6

0.4
Stable equilibrium
0.2

0
1 2 3
10 10 10
Cross-sectional area [m2]

Fig. 19. Maximum and equilibrium inlet velocity vs. throat cross-sectional area.
Small entrance channels that limit tidal passage are dominated by friction, and their
equilibrium is unstable. If a storm reduces the cross-section, friction increases, tidal passage
decreases and the maximum velocity decreases, leading to more infilling, and ultimate
closure of the inlet and relocation of the channel to a more hydraulically efficient location.
This illustrates what likely happened at Darnley Inlet in the 1960’s. The new inlet through
the East spit grew towards stable equilibrium while the original inlet to the West became
unstable and eventually closed. When the cross section was wide enough for most of the
tide to go through (tidal passage over 70-80%), the influence of friction was much reduced.
At stable inlets, storm-induced sedimentation increases maximum velocities by reducing the
cross-sectional area, causing he channel to scour back to stable equilibrium. For a cross
section of 270m2, the maximum equilibrium velocity through the inlet throat is about 1m/s,
which is consistent with numerical model results and other published estimates of
maximum tidal current necessary for inlet channel stability (Kraus 2008). In summary, the
tidal prism of Darnley Basin can only support one stable inlet. The inlet cross-section itself
appears stable and not at risk of closure.
In terms of the inlet location, longshore sediment transport influences the tendency of un-
jettied inlets to migrate along the shore, regardless of dredging schedule. Bruun and
Gerritsen (1966) examined the influence of the tidal prism over annual longshore transport
ratio P/Q, arguing that the longshore transport should play a role in inlet stability. In the
present case, using P=4.2 106 m3 (from the MIKE21 model) and Q=46,000 m3/year, P/Q is
below 100, which means the inlet position is more likely to be unstable and result in shifting
channels with significantly large shoals. This conclusion is consistent with observations
showing that the inlet throat position is migrating westward. This translation is supported
by the strong westward longshore transport, and has been facilitated so far by the relatively
lower elevation at the tip of the West spit between its well vegetated dune and the channel.
As seen at other shifting tidal inlets, there is a possibility that the East spit overlaps the
eroding tip of the West spit. This would create a more angled and less hydraulically efficient
channel, compounding the navigational difficulties.
Morphological modelling
The DHI MIKE21 Coupled Model was used to investigate engineering alternatives to ebb
shoal dredging. The model includes a dynamic coupling between DHI’s sand transport
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 49

model, the aforementioned hydrodynamic module and the spectral wave model MIKE21
SW. Feedback of the bed level changes on the waves and flow calculations is included, as
well as dynamic coupling of flow and wave calculations. This model is typically used for
investigating the morphologic evolution of the nearshore bathymetry due to the impact of
engineering works (coastal structures, dredging works etc.). It is most suitable for short to
medium-term investigations (a few weeks) over a limited coastal area. The computational
effort becomes impractically large for long-term simulations, or for large areas. Fine sand of
median grain size 0.2 mm was assumed throughout the domain based on field samples.
A morphological sediment transport model is ideally calibrated using a series of pre- and
post storm bathymetries. However, with this site (as with many others), the temporal
resolution of sounding surveys do not allow that level of detail. The model results can still
be compared to dredging records for an order-of-magnitude validation. Two runs were
carried out to validate the model for existing conditions:
• a 1-month, short-term simulation with varying wave height to investigate the infilling
processes at the dredge channel, and
• a medium-term simulation with constant wave activity and using a speedup factor in
the bed level changes to artificially accelerate the morphologic evolution. The medium-
term simulation setup served as a template for modelling the morphologic effects of
engineering alternatives to dredging.
Short-Term Simulation
The model was run for a period of 1 month including several representative wave events.
Input time-series for the month of October 2004 were imported from an offshore wind and
wave hindcast, which included several wave events of various magnitudes. The initial
bathymetry included a typical 2m-deep, 20m-wide dredged channel through the ebb shoal.

Hsig offshore [m] Peak period [sec]

Hsig at channel entrance [m]

Wave parameters
10
4.0
Hsig [m]

Tp [s]

5
2.0

0.0 0
00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00
2004-10-05 10-10 10-15 10-20 10-25 10-30
North velocity in channel [m/s] Infilling rate [meter/day]

Dredge channel infilling

0.5 0.05
metres/day
m/s

0.0 0.00

00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00 00:00

2004-10-05 10-10 10-15 10-20 10-25 10-30

Fig. 20. Time-series of modelled dredge channel infilling rates vs. tidal current and wave
parameters.
50 Sediment Transport

The mechanisms and occurrence of sedimentation events can be better understood with
plots of infilling rates versus current and wave parameters, as shown in Fig. 20. The model
indicates that sediment suspension occurs during wave events, and most of the infilling
occurs during the ebb tide (on both spring and neap tides) when waves and currents oppose
each other. Some channel scouring occasionally occurs, mostly on the flood tide, but only to
be overcome by infilling on the next ebb tide. Sediment transport is typically triggered by
local waves above 0.3 m, or offshore waves above 0.5 m, which occurs 38% of the year.
During these events, the peak infilling rate is typically 0.02 to 0.04 m/day on the ebb tide,
i.e. 0.0035 to 0.0070 m per tide. Based on a 38% yearly occurrence, this translates into an
infilling rate of 0.9 to 1.8 m/year, which is consistent with dredging requirements.
The relatively low wave height threshold that triggers infilling explains why dredging is
also required after the summer season. In fact, the waves incident to the inlet ebb shoal are
depth limited due to the offshore ebb shoal, therefore the infilling rate is not proportional to
the offshore wave height. In simple terms, channel infilling occurs gradually at each
moderate wave event and not only during large storms.
Modelled sediment transport loads during a spring tide and a Northeasterly wave event are
shown on Fig. 21. Longshore transport patterns along exposed shorelines near the open
bounday are primarily wave driven. However, transport within the inlets where waves are
depth limited, including Darnley Inlet, is very much influenced by tidal currents. For this
particular event, the sediment transport direction varies with tidal currents. These effects
add significant uncertainty to the longshore estimates shown on Fig 17. In a qualitative
sense the wave-induced differences between left and right directed longshore transport are
reduced by tidal currents.

m3/hour/m
Flood tide Ebb tide
0.17
0.15
0.14
0.13
0.12
0.11
0.10
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.01
0

Fig. 21. Modelled sediment transport loads during a northeasterly wave event with
significant wave height 1m and peak period 8s.
Long-term simulations (annual to decadal) would yield more accurate longshore transport
estimates but would require a much larger computing effort than typically done for
preliminary studies. However, medium-term morphologic evolutions can be investigated
using artificial parameters to speed up the model, as presented below.
Medium-Term Morphological Simulation
Results from the short-term simulation indicated that the offshore significant wave height of
0.5 m was a trigger for sediment transport causing infilling in the dredge channel. To speed
up the morphologic evolution in the medium-term simulations, significant wave heights at
the offshore boundary were assigned a constant 1m value (the mean height for wave records
Modelling Coastal Sediment Transport for Harbour Planning: Selected Case Studies 51

greater than 0.5m). Assuming a 38% yearly occurrence of such waves, the modelled
morphologic changes would occur 1/0.38=2.6 times faster than normal. For increase
computational effeciency, a speedup factor of 72 was applied to the rate of bed level change
computed every hour (speed up factors must be used cautiously because sudden bed level
changes trigger numerical instabilities in the hydrodynamics). The resulting total
morphological speedup is difficult to estimate, because the tidal variations cannot be
artificially accelerated, and the areas of accelerated erosion versus deposition vary with the
tidal stage. In any case, the simulations were stopped when the depth over the ebb shoal
had levelled off to a near stable level. The results for existing conditions show that ebb shoal
morphologic equilibrium is reached after 16 model days, which in real-time would take 6
months. This suggests that the ideal model speedup factor should be on the order of 10.

Depth [m]
1.5
1.2
0.9
0.6
0.3
0
-0.3
-0.6
-0.9
-1.2
-1.5
-1.8
-2.1
a. Existing b. Long -2.4
conditions jetties -2.7
-3
-3.5
-4
-4.5

c. Medium d. Bypass
jetties jetties

Fig. 22. Modelled morphologic evolution of Darnley Inlet under natural conditions (a) and
with jetties of various configurations (b, c, d).
The model was used to investigate the effectiveness of inlet stabilization jetties to improve
navigation over the ebb shoal. The bathymetry at the ebb shoal morphologic equilibrium
stage for various scenarios is shown on Fig. 22. Inlet engineering presents a conflict between
navigational requirements, which can only be met by interrupting longshore transport into
the channel, and the necessity of sediment bypassing to ensure shoreline stability. Jetties
would have to extend 600m from the inlet throat to provide a significant reduction in
dredging costs. Shoreline impacts would include updrift accretion at the East spit and
potential downdrift erosion on the West spit, which would be attenuated by transport from
the west headland. Shoreline impacts can be mitigated by using curved ‘bypass’ jetties that
52 Sediment Transport

improve sediment bypassing (details and examples are given by Mangor (2004)). Short
jetties may be used to stabilize the inlet location, which is the primary purpose of many
jetties at tidal inlets where maintenance dredging is still required. At this site the migrating
inlet does not represent an erosion risk to any property or infrastructure, but the structures
would help towards a more predictable channel. Short jetties would have a lesser impact on
the adjacent shorelines, but would provide no significant reduction in dredging
requirements. Finally, it is cautioned that morphologic response to an inlet has a long time-
scale and great spatial extent. Long-term processes, such as the migration of the inlet throat
under existing conditions, are not represented in the present modelling exercise.

4. Conclusion
Coastal sediment transport is of paramount importance for many harbour developments, as
it dictates maintenance dredging requirements and shoreline response (erosion and
accretion) to coastal structures. A site-specific harbour planning study should provide a
thorough understanding of the local environment through various methods, some of which
are presented herein. Traditional analysis methods have generally relied upon local
experience, aerial photographs, bathymetric and oceanographic surveys, and simple
analytical and/or empirical models. To complement these necessary first steps, advances in
numerical models over the last decade make it possible to efficiently assess coastal sediment
transport and its implications for infrastructure projects.
Over the next decade coastal morphology will be studied using new and improved
modelling tools and techniques. These may include improvements to existing 3D
morphological models such as better parameterizations of sediment processes, especially for
fine-grained sediments (i.e. flocculation, fluid mud, turbulent interactions), and new
methods such as smooth-particle hydrodynamic simulations (a mesh-free particle-tracking
method) which depend on high-end computing. The different examples presented in this
chapter underline the importance of using a site-specific approach and local observations in
the application of numerical models. Improved predicting capabilities for morphologic
models are, and will continue to be an important area of future research.

5. Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Public Works and Government Services Canada and the
Small Craft Harbours Branch of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for providing
funding for the studies described herein. Valuable insights given by the Saint John Port
Authority and John Hughes Clarke (University of New Brunswick) are also gratefully
acknowledged.

6. References
Booij, N., R. Ris, and L. Holthuijsen (1999), A third-generation wave model for coastal
regions: 1. Model description and validation, J. Geophys. Res., 104(4), 7649– 7666.
Bruun, P., and Gerritsen, F. (1959). Natural bypassing of sand at coastal inlets. J. Waterways
and Harbors Div. 85, ASCE, 401-412.
Chen, C, R. C. Beardsley and G. Cowles (2006). An unstructured grid, finite-volume coastal
ocean model (FVCOM) system. Special Issue entitled “Advance in Computational
Oceanography”, Oceanography, vol. 19, No. 1, 78-89.
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CERC (1984). Shore Protection Manual. Coastal Engineering Research Center, U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg.
Dabees M.A., Kamphuis J.W. (2000). NLINE: Efficient Modeling of 3-D Beach Change.
Proceedings of the 25th International Conference on Coastal Engineering, Sydney
Australia, ASCE pp.2700-2713.
Dean R.G. (2002). Beach Nourishment Theory and Practice. Advanced Series on Ocean
Engineerting – Vol 18. World Scientific Publishing.
Dean, R.G., and Dalrymple, R.A. (2002). Coastal Processes With Engineering Applications.
Cambridge U. Press, 475p
Demirbilek Z., Vijay Panchang V. (1998). CGWAVE: A Coastal Surface Water Wave
Model of the Mild Slope Equation. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Technical Report CHL-98-xx
DHI Software (2009). MIKE, Coastal Hydraulics and Oceanography – User Guide. Danish
Hydraulic Institute.
DHI Software (2008). LITPACK -An integrated modeling system for littoral processes and
coastal kinetics – User Guide. Danish Hydraulic Institute.
Forbes, Donald L, George S. Parks, Gavin K. Manson and Lorne A Ketch, 2004. Storms and
Shoreline Retreat in the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. Marine Geology 210 (pp 169-
204).
Gravens, M., Kraus, N. and Hanson, H. (1991). GENESIS: Generalized Model for Simulating
Shoreline Change – Report 1: Technical Reference, Technical Report CERC-89-19, U.S.
Army Waterways Experiment Station, Coastal Engineering Research Center,
Vicksburg, MS.
Greenberg, D.A. (1990). The Contribution of Modelling to Understanding the Dynamics of
the Bay of Fundy and Gulf of Maine. Modeling Marine Systems, Vol. 2, A.M. Davies,
ed., CRC Press, Boca Raton., Fla., 107-140.
Jarrett, J.T. (1976). Tidal Prism-Inlet Area Relationships. GITI Report 3, U.S. Army Waterways
Experiment Station, Vicksburg, MS.
Keulegan G.H. (1967). Tidal Flow in Entrances. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Committee
on Tidal Hydraulics, Tech. Bull. 14, Vicksburg.
Kraus, N. C. (2008). Engineering of Tidal Inlets and Morphologic Consequences. In: Kim Y.
(editor). Handbook of Coastal Engineering. World Scientific Press. Singapore, in press.
39p.
Lesser, G., J. Roelvink, J. van Kester, and G. Stelling (2004), Development and validation of a
three-dimensional morphological model, Coastal Eng, 51, 883-915.
Leys, V. (2007). 3D Flow and Sediment Transport Modelling at the Reversing Falls – Saint
John Harbour, New Brunswick. Proceedings of MTS/IEEE Oceans Conference,
Vancouver BC, Canada, Sep 29-Oct 4 2007.
Mangor, K. (2004). Shoreline Management Guidelines. Published by DHI Water and
Environment, Horsholm, Denmark.
McCulloch M. M., Forbes D.R., Shaw R.W and A041 Scientific Team. 2002. Coastal Impacts
of Climate Change and Sea Level Rise on Prince Edward Island. Geological Survey
of Canada. Open File 4261.
Neu, H. A. (1960). Hydrographic survey of Saint John Harbour, NB. National Research
council of Canada, Mechanical Engineering Report MH-97.
Pelnard-Considere, R. (1956). Essai de Theorie de l'Evolution des Formes de Rivages en
Plage de Sable et de Galets. Fourth Journees de l'Hydralique, les Energies de la Mer,
Question III, Rapport No. 1, pp. 289–298
54 Sediment Transport

Shchepetkin, A.F. and J.C. McWilliams (2005). The Regional Ocean Modeling System
(ROMS): A split-explicit, free-surface, topography-following coordinates ocean
model, Ocean Modelling, 9, 347-404.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (2004). Status of Current Hopper and Bin Measurement
Technologies. Technical Note ERDC TN-DOER-T6. September 2004.
Warner, J.C., Sherwood, C.R., Signell, R.P., Harris, C.K. and Arango, H.G. (2008).
Development of a three-dimensional, regional, coupled wave, current, and
sediment transport model. Computers and Geosciences, 34, 1284-1306.
Winterwerp, J. C. (2005). Reducing harbor siltation. I: Methodology. J. Waterway, Port,
Coastal and Ocean Engineering. Vol. 131, No. 6, Nov 2005, pp. 258-266
 3

Numerical Modelling of the Sediment

Re-Suspension Induced by Boat Traffic
Hassan Smaoui1,2 , Abdellatif Ouahsine2 , Damien Pham Van Bang1,3 and
Philippe Sergent1 and François Hissel1
1Centre d’Études Techniques Maritimes et Fluviales (CETMEF). 2, Bd Gambetta, B.P.
60039, 60321 Compiègne Cedex
2 LHN, Laboratoire Roberval UMR 6253 CNRS, Université de Technologie de Compiègne,
B.P. 20529, 60206 Compiègne Cedex
3 EDF/R&D, Laboratoire d’Hydraulique Saint Venant, 6, quai Watier, Bat K, B.P. 49,

78401 Chatou Cedex

France

1. Introduction
Fluvial transport in inland waterways is used in France and Europe since millennia. It was
the most effective transport mode for goods and merchandizes before the development of
the terrestrial alternatives. As an illustration, the French network of the inland waterways
counted 12800 km of both, rivers and channels, at the beginning of the twentieth century.
The huge development of highways and railways encountered in France has progressively
decreased the use of fluvial transport. By considering the duration for the transport, the
terrestrial mode looks more attractive than the fluvial one. But, the actual context of
climate change and the international or European commitments to strongly diminish CO2
emissions are pleading for the reverse modal transfer, i.e. from highways and/or railways
to waterways. Rebalancing the different transport modes are indeed compatible with the
sustainable development concepts facing against road saturation, CO2 emissions, visual or
noise pollutions while ensuring a better safety.
Even through the shared awareness and the common efforts to increase the river traffic, this
transport mode is still considered "under-developed" in the white paper of the European
commission of 2001. For example, the fluvial transport in France has increased by 30% in
ten years (1997 − 2007), but it only represents 3% of the means of transport. And the recent
recommendations in "Grenelle de l’environnement" initiated by the French ministry of ecology
may accelerate the rebalance between rails, roads and rivers, carrying the ambition of a 25%
report from the road down to the river by 2020.
However, the development of this transport mode will certainly have economical and
ecological consequences on the river management. The intensification of the river traffic by
increasing the size and/or the frequency of passing boats will impact the actual management
plan of the river. The waves induced by navigation could become stronger and bank erosion
more frequent. The induced currents may be more intense and the resulting sediment
transport more problematic. Indeed, it is accepted in aquatic environment that erosion
56
2 Sediment Transport
Sediment Transport

phenomenon have strong consequences on the ecosystem : destruction of habitats, increase

in the turbidity, release of nutritive elements (phosphorus and nitrogenizes) which support
the proliferation of the algae. With these economical and environmental considerations, the
benefit/cost balance for the maintenance program of the inland waterways is changed and
some practices could be renewed in the light of recent investigations.
To evaluate how different passing boats impact on the waterway, it was measured at two fields
the hydraulic conditions (h, u ) and the solid suspended matter (SSM, c) at different points.
The measurements are related to the boat traffic that is obviously recorded or geo-localized.
The two sites (canal de la Sensée and the Seine river: see figures 1 and 2) are investigated in
November 2006. The water signals obtained close to the bank and the SSM concentrations
close to the bed are measured at different points. The data description and analysis are
fully presented in (Pham Van Bang et al., 2007). Most of the passing boats are impacting
the waterway in modifying the water elevation and the turbidity that was frequency- or
space-time analyzed by Pham Van Bang et al., 2008.
The field experiment aims to optimize maintenance program (dredging operations to maintain
the nautical depth) and evaluate the effect of an increase in the boat frequentation. Due to the
large scale of the site, it remains obvious the field measurements alone are not sufficient to
quantify all the variables of the flow. For example, it is still not possible to measure in situ and
non-intrusively the turbulent movement of both the water and the sediment. But during a
boat episode, such measurements are missing, more particularly close to the bed or the bank
of the studied river. These lacks of information is herein supplemented by the results of the
mathematical/numerical models that enables a prediction, for inaccessible data field at least.

In this book chapter, we present the numerical approach for a 1DV model to predict
the sediment re-suspension behind the boat passage. To proceed, we first start with the
description of the mathematical model 1DV and justify the applicability to the sites of
consideration. Then, we analyze the model results focusing both aspects, the TKE distribution
along the vertical direction and the time-decrease in the fixed point measurement. In
particular, we demonstrate the model is reliable to reproduce the field observed sediment
re-suspension. Finally, we prove the numerical approach is effective to predict the sediment
fluxes induced by the daily river traffic.

2. Presentation of the mathematical model

The model 1DV used in this study is part of a more general 3D model that is specifically
devoted to free surface flows. The 1DV model is obtained by neglecting all the horizontal
gradients, except the pressure gradient. It consists in these set of equations for the mean and
turbulent movements and the continuity equation :
 
∂u 1 ∂p ∂ ∂u
+ = (ν + νt ) (1)
∂t ρ ∂x ∂z ∂z
 2   √
∂k ∂u ∂ ∂k k k
= νt + ν − (2)
∂t ∂z ∂z tk ∂z B1 L
 2   √
∂kL ∂u ∂ ∂kL L2 k
= A1 Lνt + νtk − (3)
∂t ∂z ∂z ∂z 
B2 w
Numerical Modelling
Numerical Modelling ofRe-Suspension
of the Sediment the Sediment Re-Suspension
Induced by Boat Traffic Induced by Boat Traffic 57
3

 
∂c ∂c ∂ ∂c
= ws + γt (4)
∂t ∂z ∂z ∂z
where t is the time, x and z are the horizontal and the vertical coordinates respectively, u
the horizontal velocity, p the pressure, ρ the water density, ν the molecular viscosity, νt the
turbulent viscosity, k the TKE (turbulent kinetic energy), L the mixing length, νtk the turbulent
diffusivity of the TKE , w  is the wall function, A1 , B1 , B2 are empirical constants (Table 1), c
the concentration of SSM, γt the turbulent diffusivity of SSM and ws the settling velocity of
sediment given by:
⎧ 2
⎪
⎪ gd50 (s − 1)
⎪
⎨ if d50 < 63μm
18ν
ws = (5)
⎪
⎪ −3ν + 9ν2 + gd250 (s − 1)(α1 + α2 d50 )
⎪
⎩ if d50 ≥ 63μm
β1 + β2 d50

Where ν is the molecular viscosity, g is the acceleration of gravity, d50 is the median diameter
of the sediments, s = ρs /ρ, ρs is the density of the sediments and α1 , α2 , β1 , β2 are empirical
constants (Table 2).

A1 B1 B2 Sh Sk Sm
1.80 16.6 12.48 0.49 0.20 0.39
Table 1. Closure empirical constants of k − kL turbulence model

α1 ( m ) α2 β1 (m) β2
3.8691 × 10−5 2.4801 × 10−2 1.1607 × 10−4 7.4405 × 10−2
Table 2. Empirical constants used to compute the settling velocity wc

To close the system of equations (1, 2, 3, 4), the turbulent viscosity νt and diffusivities (νtk , γt )
must be determined from TKE (k), the mixing length ( L ) and same stability functions Sm , Sk
and Sh as :
√ √ S
νt = L kSm , νtk = L kSk , γt = h νt (6)
Sm
Values of the stability functions Sm , Sk and Sh are given by Blumberg & Mellor, 1987 in Table
(1).

2.1 Bottom conditions

At the bottom, a non-slip condition is assumed for the velocity u (u (z0 ) = 0). Moreover,
if we assume the equilibrium between the production and the dissipation of the TKE, the
logarithmic profil of the velocity u and a linear mixing length, the following conditions can be
imposed for k and L
k(z0 ) = λb u2∗ , L (z0 ) = κz0 (7)
where λb is an empirical coefficient, u ∗ is the bottom friction velocity, (λb = 6.74) and κ is the
von Karmàn constant (κ = 0.41).
The bottom condition for the equation (4) dealing with sediment conservation is expressed
by equation (8). At the fluid-sediment bed interface, equation (8) assume the equilibrium
58
4 Sediment Transport
Sediment Transport

between between the descending (or the deposition rate D) and the ascending (or the erosion
rate E) sediment fluxes.  
∂c
γt + ws c = D−E (8)
∂z z = z0
The deposition rate D is considered proportional to the SSM concentration close to the bed
with the settling velocity ws acting as a proportionality factor (D = ws c(z0 )). In addition, the
erosion rate, E, is computed by the equation (9) given in the equilibrium condition by Celik &
Rodi,1984; Celik & Rodi, 1988; Celik & Rodi, 1991 and Van Rijn, 1986.

γ0 S
E = ws cb (9)
1 + γ0 S

where cb is the volume concentration of the sediment (cb = 0.65 for non-cohesive sediment),
γ0 is an empirical constant for the sediment re-suspension and S is the non-dimensional shear
stress excess given by:
τ − τth
S= b (10)
τth
τb = ρu2∗ is the shear stress at the bottom and τth the critical threshold for erosion.

2.2 Free surface conditions

At this interface (air-fluid),as a first approximation and without the effects of boat propellers,
we consider that the velocity boats are transmitted directly by the shear effect to the surface
layer. The effect of a boat passage is therefore taken into consideration by using the navigation
velocity of boats as hydrodynamic forcing: u ( H ) = Vboat. However this first approximation is
relevant since the navigation velocities of boats are measured accurately in the field conditions
by using differential GPS systems.
The equilibrium between production-dissipation of the TKE, and a linear law for the mixing
length are also assumed at z = H. Thus, the conditions to be imposed on the free surface are:

k( H ) = λs u2∗,s , L ( H ) = κzs (11)

where λs is an empirical coefficient, u ∗,s is the surface friction velocity and zs is the roughness
of the boat surface.
Concerning the boundary condition for the sediment equation (4) at the free surface, it is
specified a zero flux condition (i.e. no sediment flux across the free surface):
 
∂c
γt + ws c =0 (12)
∂z z= H

2.3 Numerical solution

The flow modeled in this study is sheared flow at the surface and boundary layer flow at
the bottom. The variables of this type of flow are characterized by large variations in the
vicinities of the boundaries of the domain. To reproduce numerically these variations, we
used a variable mesh size by splitting the column water into three layers (bottom, intermediate
layer and surface layer). The surface and bottom layers were meshed very fine (about one
millimeter). To limit interpolation procedures during the computation , the mean variables (u,
c) and the turbulent variables (k, L, νt , γt ) were calculated on two staggered grids. This grid
Numerical Modelling
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5

shift allows us to express naturally the various gradients of each equation of system (1-4).
Equations (1-4) with their boundary conditions was discretized by the finite volume method
in space and finite differences in time. The spatial partial derivatives were approximated by
a centered scheme except the convective term of equation (4) for which the upwind scheme
was adopted. The implicit Euler scheme was adopted for the time derivatives of all model
equations. Note that the discretization of equations has led to solving a tri-diagonal linear
system by the Thoma’s algorithm (TDMA: Tri-Diagonal Matrix Algorithm).

3. Application of the 1DV model

3.1 Field measurements
The impacts of passing boats on the bank erosion and/or the sediment re-suspension are
specifically addressed during previous field experiments (Pham Van Bang et al., 2007 and
2008). Two sites (figures 1, 2) are considered: "Canal de la Sensée" (site 1) in northern France;
Seine river (site 2). The two weeks (November 2006) measurements consist in records on the
water elevations close to the bank and SSM concentrations with flow velocities in the vicinity
of the bottom. The water fluctuations induced by the passing boats are measured by the mean
of classical capacitive gauges in three points. This choice enables studies on the following
aspects: the amplitude, the frequency and the direction of waves that are produced by the
boat passage. The concentration and velocity measurements close to the bed are obtained
by using Optical Backscattering Sensor, OBS, and electromagnetic velocity-meter, S4. Both
sensors, OBS and S4, are attached to a beam that is anchored to the bed in the center of
the navigation channel. The OBS is located at 10 cm above the sediment bed while the S4
is at 15 cm. This experimental set-up is completed by Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler
(ADCP) located behind the passing boat to measure the vertical profile of flow velocity.
The backscattered acoustic signal from ADCP transducer is also analyzed since its intensity
provides qualitative information on the SSM concentration. As far as this chapter deals
with sediment re-suspension induced by passing boats, the analysis from boat wake and
ADCP measurements (detailed in Pham Van Bang et al., 2007) are not considered in the
present study and only measurements close to the bed (from S4 and OBS transducers) are of
concern. The information provided by these sub-aquatic sensors are indeed more relevant to
characterize the re-suspension of sediment. It is generally observed from OBS measurements
the production of concentration peaks during the boats passage. Thereafter, the peak tends
slowly to decrease after the boat passage. This could be explained by the non-negligible inertia
of the water mass which delays the recovering of equilibrium as explained later

3.2 Parameters and model forcing

During the period of the field investigations on the two sites, the daily traffic is recorded
in order to correlate measurements to the navigation parameters. Of prior importance, it is
recorded the direction, speed, trajectory and type (size, draught) of boats by the use of DGPS,
radar and/or digital camera (Pham Van Bang et al., 2007). For example, the navigation speed
with the boat length is used to form a chronicle that is finally exploited to force the velocity u
at the free surface z = H.
The river bed and the SSM are sampled for the calibration of transducer, but also for the
estimation of the bed roughness. Indeed, from grain size analysis of bed samples, it is
determined a median diameter for the sediment particles, d50 , close to 20 μm (site 1) and 40
μm (site 2). This result enables the classification of the sediment as muddy sand for both sites.
60
6 Sediment Transport
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Fig. 1. Localization of the measurement site 1 "Canal de la Sensée" (North of France)

Fig. 2. Localization of the measurement site 2 "Seine river" (North of Paris, France)
Numerical Modelling
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7

The median diameter, d50 , is finally used to estimate the roughness of the bottom according to
: z0 ∼
= 8d50 .

4. Presentation of results simulations

As mentioned above, the measurement campaign was conducted on two different sites over
a period of two weeks. However, we present here, for example, simulations for some days of
both site 1 (11/08/2006 and 11/09/2006) and site 2 (11/15/2006).

4.1 The current induced by the boats

Figure 3 presents the velocity and the variables of turbulence obtained by the 1DV model.
Two boat passages (namely D1 and D9, navigating down- and up-stream, see table (4)) are
simulated for the day of the 11/08/2006. On this figure, it is first to notice that the obtained
vertical profile of velocity is in good agreement with the flow characteristic expected from the
theory of the surface-boundary layer. Moreover, the numerical model reproduces realistically
the return currents induced by boats (inversion of the profile): the vertical profiles of velocity
provided by our model are in good agreement with available data (mostly from physical
model at laboratory) on the flow characteristics in the under keel clearance region.
Figures 3.b, 3.c and 3.d show that the model provides vertical profiles of turbulence variables
(k, L , νt ) in perfect agreement with the theory of the turbulent surface boundary layer
structure.
The 1DV model also enables to simulate the velocity measurements performed by S4 sensors
that are localized at 10 cm and 25 cm from the bottom. For the boat traffic recorded during
the day of the 11/08/2006 (site 1), the chronicle presents strong and irregular peaks that
is explained by the important inertia of water which delays considerably the return to
equilibrium. The averaged peaks in the velocity for the day of the 11/08/2006 is 3.5 cm/s
at z = 10 cm and 4.4 cm/s at z = 25 cm. These estimations are in close agreement with the
field measurements (Pham Van Bang et al., 2007, 2008).
For the site 2 (day 11/15/2006), the model provides a velocity of 12 cm/s at z = 10 cm and 16
cm/s at z = 25 cm. This variation is undoubtedly due to the difference in the site conditions
(geometry of the navigation channel, type of boat,..etc.). For example, the site 1 is localized at
a narrow and straight channel (50 m wide, 4 m deep) with a negligible ambient current while
the site 2 is related to a large river (200 m wide, 5 m deep) with an average ambient current of
10cm/s.
Finally, it is useful to note the important advantage of our numerical model to provide direct
estimation for the bottom shear stress, τb . This key parameter for sediment transport is not
measured during the field experiment: the time resolution used for S4 records was limited
due to the hard drive capacity of the data log; the measurement of velocity near the bed looks
problematic if using such a technology. The bottom shear stress τb is however accessible from
the numerical modelling. With the considered assumptions, the model estimates the bottom
shear stress for the day of the 11/08/2006 (site 1) at 0.43 Nm−2 and at 1.14 Nm−2 for day
of the 11/15/2006 (site 2). This last estimated value is very compatible with the values of τb
founded between 1 and 2 Nm−2 from ADV measurements in the Seine estuary (Verney et al.,
2007).
62
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0,2

0,6
(d)
(b)

D9

0,5
0,15

0,4
Mixing Length (m)
TKE (m2/s2)

D1
0,1

0,3
D1

0,2
0,05

0,1
D9

0
1
3
4

1
3
4

0
Water Height (m) Water Height (m)

0,04
4

(c)
3

D1

0,03
Turbulent Viscosity (m2/s)
2
D1

Velocity U(m/s)
1

0,02
D9
0
D9

-1

0,01
-2
(a)

-3

0
1

1
3

3
4

Water Height (m) Water Height (m)

Fig. 3. Vertical profiles resulting from simulation: a) velocity (u), b) turbulent kinetic energy
(k), c) turbulent viscosity (νt ), d) mixing length (L)
Numerical Modelling
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9

4.2 Suspension of the sediments induced by boats

Figure 4 presents time series of SSM concentration measurements from OBS sensor located
at 10 cm from the bottom on site 1. The confrontation between experiment and simulation
presents a good agreement. In particular, the general shape and magnitude of concentration
peaks are well reproduced by the computation. The numerical model is therefore able to
capture dynamics, the fast mode of erosion and the following slow mode of sedimentation
that are produced by a passing boat. As example, figure 4 focusing on the measurements
of the 11/10/2006 proposes simulations of the sediment re-suspension peaks. For the peak
values, results are in narrow agreement with the measurements performed close to the bed
since the difference between the simulated and measured peaks does not exceed 3 × 10−3
g/l. However, it is also observed in figure 4 some discrepancies between simulation and
experiment after the peaks of concentration, i.e. during the sedimentation of the re-suspended
matter. This difference with measurements could be explained twofold. On one hand, the
numerical model only considers an unique ’equivalent’ diameter (40 μm for the site of interest)
for the sediment while OBS measurement concerns all the sediment particles whatever
their size. As the particle settling velocity scales with the square of its diameter, sediment
particles finer than 40 μm will remain longer in the suspension so that the simulation results
underestimate the concentration during the sedimentation. On the other hand, the numerical
model doesn’t take account the added turbulence by the propellers effects. These effects could
also maintain longer the sediment in suspension.
Despite of its simple assumptions, the actual version of the 1DV model provides practical
information for the management plan of the waterway. For example, the amplitude and the
time duration of a re-suspension peak are obtained from the model. The time relaxation of the
concentration peak is estimated and could be used to avoid cumulative effect whilst increasing
the boat frequentation. From figure 4.d, the D59 boat induced peak concentration is decreasing
with a characteristic time (noted τ) between 10 and 12 mn. The following boat shouldn’t imply
cumulative effect on the D59 peak signature if it passes 15 mn later than D59.
Figure 5.a shows the SSM concentration chronic simulated by the model at the bottom (10
cm above the bottom) of site 1. This figure is used to establish a correspondence between the
boats passage and the SSM peaks: the peaks succession of the SSM identify with precision
the boats causing these peaks (figures. 5.b, 5.c, 5.d). In these figures, we also observe an
asymmetry that reflects the rapid phase of erosion and the slow process of sedimentation. This
asymmetry has been observed in-situ by others authors (Pham Van Bang et al., 2007; Parchure
et al., 2001a; Parchure et al., 2001b). Note that the 1DV model can learn about the amplitudes
and duration peaks of SSM without going through any simplifying assumption. Indeed, one
can directly read from the SSM concentration figures 5.b, 5.c, 5.d), the characteristic time of
decay (or sedimentation). As an example, we read τD22 = 220 s, τD24 = 222 s et τD36 = 185 s
respectively for boats D22, D24 and D36. These orders of magnitude are in agreement with the
conclusions resulting from the measurements taken on site 1 by Pham Van Bang et al. (2007).
On figure 6.a, we present the vertical profiles of the SSM concentration induced by the passage
of the D1 and D9 boats (site 1). It is first observed the vertical profiles match in good
agreement with the Rouse’s law (analytical solution at the equilibrium). It is also observed
that the suspension takes predominantly place in the first fifty centimeters from the bottom.
Let us remind that return currents due to the boat passage are localized in this zone. As a
consequence, an accurate calculation of the return current near the bottom zone is strongly
required in the numerical model for a good estimate of the SSM concentration.
The figure 6.b presents the same results as figure 6.a in term of vertical profile of sediment
64
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10,8

9,75
Model

Model

9,5
Time (hour)

Time (hour)
D59
10,6

9,25
Data

Data

9
D25

D58
(b)

(d)
10,4

8,75
1

1
0,4

0,4
0

0
0,8

0,6

0,2

0,8

0,6

0,2
SSM (g/l) SSM (g/l)
11

10
Model

9,5
D7

9
Time (hour)

Time (hour)
10,75
Data

8,5
D6

8
(c)
(a)

10,5

7,5
1

1
0,4

0,4
0

0
0,8

0,6

0,2

0,8

0,6

0,2

SSM (g/l) SSM (g/l)

Fig. 4. The SSM chronic issued from simulation.

(a) the peaks of the SSM induced by boats D6 and D7 11/08/2006.
(b) the peaks of the SSM induced by boat D25 11/09/2006.
(c) the peaks of SSM induced by all river traffic 10/11/2006.
(d) zoom on the SSM induced by boats D58 and D59 11/10/2006
Numerical Modelling
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Induced by Boat Traffic Induced by Boat Traffic 65
11

14
9

13,8
8,75

D40

13,6
D39
D22

Time(h)

Time(h)
8,5

D38
D21

13,4
D20

8,25

13,2
D36
(b)

(d)

13
8
1,8

1,2

0,6

1,8

1,2

0,6
0

0
SSM(g/l) SSM(g/l)

10,75
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

D26

10,5
D25
(d)

Time(h)

Time(h)
D24
(c)

10,25
9
8
(b)

(c)
(a)

10
6
1,8

1,2

0,6

1,8

1,2

0,6
0

SSM(g/l) SSM(g/l)

Fig. 5. The SSM chronic issued from simulation.

(a) the peaks of SSM induced by all river traffic of 11/09/2006.
(b), (c) and (d) identification of boats causing the SSM peaks
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horizontal fluxes (u.c). As a consequence of the previously detailed velocity (u, in figure
3.a) and concentration profiles (c, in figure 6.a), the vertical distribution of sediment fluxes
presents positive and negative values depending on the direction of the passing boat. More
important values of the sediment fluxes occur close to the bottom and near the free surface.
The results presented in figure 6.b provide again practical information for the management

6e-06

14
(b)

(d)
2e-06 4e-06

13
Sedimentary Flux (g.m/l.s)

D9
D1

12
Time (h)
-6e-06 -4e-06 -2e-06 0

11
D9

10
D1

9
1

0,1
0,15

0,05
3
4

0
Water Height (m)
SSM (g/l)
0,5

14
(c)
(a)

0,4

13
D9
0,3

12
SSM (g/l)

Time (h)
11
0,2
D1
D9

10
0,1

D1

9
0

0,1
0,15

0,05

0
1
3
4

Water Height (m)

SSM (g/l)

Fig. 6. The SSM chronic issued from simulation.

(a) the peaks of SSM induced by all river traffic of 11/09/2006.
(b), (c) and (d) identification of boats causing the SSM peaks
Numerical Modelling
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of the Sediment the Sediment Re-Suspension
Induced by Boat Traffic Induced by Boat Traffic 67
13

of the waterway. The net sediment transport induced by daily traffic could be estimated as
follows. For the daily traffic recorded during the day of the 11/9/2006, the vertical profiles of
the sediment concentration induced by each passing boat is integrated along the vertical. The
net sediment mass transported per second and per width unit (figure 7) is therefore obtained.
For the whole traffic (17 boats, site 1) of the 11/9/2008, the sediment transport is estimated by
the model at 0.280 kgm−1 s−1 and 2.940 kgm−1 s−1 for the day of the 11/15/2006 (site 2). An
extrapolation of these results at one year gives the estimate of 102.5 kg per year and per width
unit for site 1 (and 1.1 tons per year and width unit for site 2). Finally, the estimate of the net
mass transported due to navigation traffic is proposed in table 3 for other days.
Site 1 Site 2
11/08/2006 : 1.720 Kgm−1 11/14/2006 : missing data
11/09/2006 : 0.280 Kgm−1 11/15/2006 : 2.943 Kgm−1
11/10/2006 : 0.124 Kgm−1 11/16/2006 : 2.475 Kgm−1
Table 3. Net mass of the sediments transported by suspension per day during de
measurements period (November 2006)

5. Conclusions
Predicting the sediment transport in natural environment is a difficult task, but an essential
exercise for ecological and economical issues. More difficult is the prediction of sediment
transport in presence of navigation traffic. To study this peculiar case, a field experiment on
two different sites is conducted with the measurement on the sediment re-suspension induced
by passing boats.
In the continuity of this work, we developed a 1DV numerical model. Despite of its apparent
simplicity, the model considers all the governing processes (hydrodynamic, turbulence,
sediment transport) to compute the boat induced sediment transport. Although based on
simplifying assumptions, this model recovers all the flow characteristics that are observed in
the under keel clearance zone, meanwhile propeller effects are neglected.
The use of the developed model, this study demonstrates that the numerical model is able
to predict reasonably all the measured variables. Moreover, the model provides precious
information on the flow variables difficult to measure due to the complexity of their
achievement in field conditions. More particularly, the 1DV model supplies information on
turbulence, bottom stress shear, sedimentary flux. The model gives also estimation that could
be used for an integrated management of the waterway.
Finally, let us note that the actual version of the model doesn’t account for the total flow in
the under keel clearance zone, nor for muddy sediment transport. A non-hydrostatic 2DV or
3D numerical model (hydrodynamic, turbulence, muddy sediment transport) is needed for a
more realistic study of the flows including the propeller effects.

6. Acknowledgement
The authors acknowledged gratefully the Inland Waterways for France VNF (Voies
Navigables de France), the University of Quebec and the Regional Laboratory of the Parisian
East (LREP) for their financial and technical support during the field investigations
68
14 Sediment Transport
Sediment Transport

20

20
19

19
18

18
17

17
16

16
15

15
14

14
13

13
12

12
10 11

10 11
Boat

Boat
9

9
8

8
7

7
6

6
5

5
4

4
3

3
2

2
1

1
(b)
(a)

0
-4

-4

-4

-4

-4

-4

-4

-4
0

0
4×10

2×10

-2×10

-4×10

4×10

2×10

-2×10

-4×10

Sedimentary Flux[kg/(m.s)] Sedimentary Flux [kg/(m.s)]

Fig. 7. Suspended sedimentary flux induced by boats at site 1.

a) daily river traffic of 11/08/2006
b) daily river traffic of 11/09/2006
Numerical Modelling
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of the Sediment the Sediment Re-Suspension
Induced by Boat Traffic Induced by Boat Traffic 69
15

Date H (GMT) Reference C.E Length (m) Direction Speed (km/h)

11/08/2006 09h45 D1 E 38 Douai 13.5
- 10h45 D6 C 45 Douai 08.5
- 10h55 D7 E 80 Cambrai 06.6
- 12h20 D9 E 2×38 Cambrai 08.0
11/09/2006 08h18 D20 C - Douai 11.0
- 08h22 D21 - - Cambrai 05.8
- 08h32 D22 C 38 Douai 10.0
- 10h15 D24 C 38 Douai 10.5
- 10h27 D25 E 80 Cambrai 10.0
- 10h32 D26 E 85 Cambrai 06.5
- 12h55 D36 C 67 Douai 09.7
- 13h28 D38 C 38 Cambrai 10.0
- 13h32 D39 C 90 Douai 11.0
- 13h38 D40 E 80 Cambrai 06.0
11/10/2006 08h05 D58 C 38 Douai 06.5
- 09h15 D59 C 79 Douai 09.7
Table 4. Information about some boats cited in the text:
C.E : Carrying or Empty boat.
Direction (see figure 1): Douai = downstrean; Cambrai = upstream

7. References
Blumberg A.F. & Mellor G.L. (1987). A description of three-dimensional coastal ocean
circulation model has. In: Three-Dimensional Coastal Models Ocean, Coastal and
Estuarine Sciences, Volume 4 AGU N.S. Heaps (Ed.), pp 1–16, Washington (D.C.).
Celik, I. & Rodi W. (1984). A deposition-entrainment model for suspended sediment transport.
Report SFB 210/T/6, University of Karlsruhe (FRG), Karlsruhe, Germany, 55 p.
Celik, I. & Rodi W. (1988). Modeling suspended sediment-transport in nonequilibrium
situations. ASCE Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, Vol. 114, No. 10, October 1988,
1157-1191.
Celik, I. & Rodi W. (1991). Suspended sediment-transport capacity for open Chanel flow. ASCE
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, Vol. 117, No 2, February 1991, 191-204.
Parchure, T.M.; McAnally W.H. & Teeter A.M. (2001a). Desktop method for estimate
vessel-induced sediment suspension. ASCE Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, Vol. 127,
No 7, July 2001, 577-587.
Parchure, T.M.; McAnally W.H. & Teeter A.M. (2001b). Wave-induced sediment resupension
near the shorelines of the upper the Mississippi to rivet system. (ENV Report 20),
99 p
Pham Van Bang, D.; Ouahsine, A.; Sergent, P. & Hissel, F. (2007). Impact of the passage of the
boats on the transport of the sediments and the maintenance of the inland waterways:
measurements and analyzes. Report VNF, UTC, CETMEF, 63 p.
Pham Van Bang, D.; Ouahsine, A.; Sergent, P.; Long, B.; Montreuil S.; Debaillon P. & Hissel
F. (2008). Erosion of the sediments and vagueness generated by the passage of
the boats: measurements and analyzes. Proceedings of X me Journées Nationales Génie
Côtier-Génie-Civil, pp. 605-614, ISBN 2-9505787-9-9, Sophia Antipolis, October 2008,
Centre Français du Littoral, France
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Sediment Transport

Van Rijn, L.C. (1986). Mathematical modeling off suspended sediment in non-uniform flows.
ASCE Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, Vol. 12, No 6, June 1986, 1613-1641.
Verney R.; Deloffre, J.; Brown-Cottan J.C.; Lafite R.(2007). Intertidal The effect off
wave-induced turbulence one mudflats: impact off boat traffic and wind. Continental
Shelf Reseach, Vol 27, No 5, March 2007, 594-612.
 4

Hybrid Model Approaches to

Predict Multiscale and Multiphysics
Coastal Hydrodynamic and
Sediment Transport Processes
H. S. Tang1,∗ and Timothy Keen2
1City College, City University of New York
2Naval Research Laboratory

USA

1. Introduction
Coastal ocean processes are complicated and they happen as various phenomena that span a
vast range of spatial and temporal scales. For instance, general circulations of oceans occur
at global scales (Wunsch & Ferrari, 2004). Tropical waves that eventually impact coastal
waters propagate with wavelengths of one thousand kilometers and periods of one month
(Legeckis et al., 1983). Langmuir cells, which are pairs of vortices hanging below water
surfaces, have spatial sizes ranging from one to hundreds of meters (Weller et al., 1985).
Scour near coastal structures is under influence of large-scale current processes but occurs in
a relatively small size (Sumer & Whitehouse, 2001). Flows around enormous numbers of
swimming microorganisms can occur at scales of micrometers (Pedley, 1992). Here, the
scales are either observation scales such as characteristic length and time or process scales
such as those in wavelet analysis (Chui, 1992; Kumar and Foufoula-Georgiou, 1997).
Since a few decades ago, various geophysical fluid dynamics (GFD) models have been
developed for individual coastal ocean phenomena at specific scales. The Princeton Ocean
Model (POM), Finite-Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM), and HYbrid Coordinate
Ocean Model (HYCOM) were developed to predict current velocity, sea level, salinity, and
temperature at regional scales (Blumberg and Mellor, 1987; Chen et al., 2003; Halliwell,
2004). The WAVEWATCH and SWAN (Simulating Waves Nearshore) models were
designed to simulate surface wave propagation at global to coastal scales (Tolman, 1991;
Booij et al., 1999). Models have also been proposed to predict sediment transport and seabed
morphology for near-coastal regions (e.g., Tonnon et al., 2007; Papanicolaou et al., 2008). In
recent years, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which can accurately model small-scale
and detailed flow structures, has been applied to coastal engineering flows (e.g., Young et
al., 2001). In view of the multiscale and multiphysics nature of coastal ocean processes, there
is a great challenge to simulate them accurately and, until now, the efforts using numerical
simulation have been successful merely for individual phenomena and scales. The challenge
comes from model restrictions, numerical techniques, and computer capabilities. For

∗
Changsha University of science and Technology, China
72 Sediment Transport

instance, a deep-ocean model has difficulty in dealing with the vertical mesh at sudden
bathymetry changes as well as the smaller scales of nearshore flows (Song & Hou, 2006;
Heimusund & Berntsen, 2004). Limitations such as hydrostatic assumptions and/or two-
dimensionality of GFD models are inherent restrictions that prohibit accurate simulations of
many important phenomena such as vertical motions of Langmuir cells. It is frequently
reported that coastal models become unstable at small time steps and grid spacing (e.g.,
Heimusund & Berntsen, 2004; Keen et al., 2003), which is not a surprise since they are
designed for large-scale flow phenomena. It is anticipated that the solutions of the models
do not necessarily converge to those of Navier-Stokes equations as grid spacing tends to
zero. Therefore, it is not realistic to achieve accurate simulation of coastal phenomena,
especially the small-scale processes, by just using existing coastal ocean models and simply
reducing time steps and grid spacing. Although in principle CFD approaches have fewer
limitations and can capture flow phenomena at much broader spectra of scales, they are
computationally expensive and not applicable in simulating a complete actual coastal ocean
flow. It should be noted that, although both GFD and CFD are based on the Navier-Stokes
equations, they are different approaches with respect to numerical technique, turbulence
closure, and parameterization for small scales.
It is now becoming a trend in prediction of coastal ocean flows to adapt to
multiphysics/multiscale approaches (Fringer et al., 2006). Although computer modeling has
reached the point where the simulation of individual flow phenomena over relatively
narrow ranges of scales has become mature, a single, comprehensive model capable of
dealing with multiphysics/multiscale problems is unlikely to be available in the near future.
The hybrid method (HM) couples different models to each other, and the domain
decomposition method (DDM) divides a flow domain into many subdomains, each of which
is assigned to an individual model. Combining HM and DDM is one of the most promising
currently available techniques to bridge the scales and overcome difficulties in
multiphysics/multiscale modeling (Benek et al., 1983; Harten, 1993; Dolbow et al., 2004).
Since erosion and transport of erodible seabed sediment is coupled to various
hydrodynamic forces, it is imperative to analyze them at different scales in correspondence
to multiscale hydrodynamic processes (Chiew, 1991). It has been common to assume that
seabed scour is a local process, which occurs within a few tens of diameters of a structure
resting on the seafloor (Zang et al., 2009). This is true for event-scale erosion but it is
unlikely for systematic or catastrophic scour and/or burial processes that operate at months
or yearly time scales. Experimental results and parametric methods for scour around
structures on the seafloor have been supplemented by numerical models that focus on the
finest scales around the obstacles (Alam & Cheng, 2010). These high-resolution models
typically focus on steady flow but recent laboratory studies have examined wave-induced
scour (Xu et al., 2009) and numerical methods have been applied to shoaling waves
(Myrhaug et al., 2008). These studies use simplified hydrodynamic forcing because of the
disparity in scales between the external (ocean currents) and internal flows (around
structures).
CFD approaches for the fluid flow around a structure are not easily implemented for
sediments because of the interaction of turbulence with discrete particles. Thus, scour
models have traditionally used parametric approaches (Myrhaug et al., 2008) and discrete
particle models (Zamankhan & Doolatshahi, 2008). Lattice Boltzmann methods are being
explored as well for simple geometries (Alam & Cheng, 2010). These approaches depend on
a given flow field that is typically simplified from the ocean environment. The constitutive
equations for these models are derived from observations in flumes and the seabed, and
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 73

thus are specifically formulated for near-field flow. The other extreme is to use a numerical
model of regional flow to calculate a large-scale mean scour that can be used as an indicator
of variations in potential scour within a selected region (Keen & Glenn, 2002). These models
tend to use the same macroscopic approach represented by the Navier-Stokes equations.
There is a lack of knowledge of the impact of these external hydrodynamic processes on the
local scour and burial problem. In order to use localized scour models to investigate the
impact of external factors on seabed scour, it is necessary to implement them on much larger
domains. This approach is problematic with current computational resources. The problem
of applying a macroscopic model (i.e., those based on Navier-Stokes equations) for the
external problem and a scour model for the local scour is prohibitive because of
fundamental differences in their numerical formulations. This problem can be more easily
examined using macroscopic approaches, which have common numerical formulations and
parameterizations.
This chapter summarizes our recent work in modeling of multiscale and multiphysics
hydrodynamics phenomena using HM and DDM. We also discuss related sediment transport,
with emphasis on localized scour and erosion processes. First, a hybrid approach that
couples the FVCOM and a CFD model is described, and results of multiscale simulation for
an effluent thermal discharge from a diffuser at the ocean bottom is presented. Second, an
analysis is made of the effects of local-scale hydrodynamics on sediment transport around
the diffuser. Third, as a multiphysics modeling of interaction between different phenomena,
simulation of flow over sand dunes under action of surface wind is presented to illustrate
the interaction between surface waves, currents, and morphology. These examples
demonstrate the multiscale/multiphysics methodology as applied to problems that cannot
be simulated as either local or external phenomena. They also indicate that multiscale and
multiphysics simulations of hydrodynamics are more advanced than conventional modeling
because of the complex interaction between the flow and discrete particles in the ocean.

2. Hybrid CFD and FVCOM for simulation of thermal effluent into coastal
flows
A well-tested CFD model is employed in this work (Lin & Sotiropoulos, 1997; Tang et al.,
2003; Tang et al., 2008). The governing equations for hydrodynamic processes of the CFD
model are the three-dimensional (3D) continuity and Navier-Stokes equations that, in
general curvilinear coordinates, are expressed as follows:

∂Q ∂
Γ + J k ( F k − Fνk ) + I = 0, (1)
∂t ∂ξ
where

Γ = diag(0,1,1,1), Q = ( p , u , v , w )T ,

1
F k = (U k , uU k + pξ xk , vU k + pξ yk , wU k + pξ zk )T , (2)
J

1⎛ 1 ⎞ ∂u ∂v ∂w
Fνk = ⎜ + ν t ⎟ (0, g lk l , g lk l , g lk l )T ,
J ⎝ Re ⎠ ∂ξ ∂ξ ∂ξ
74 Sediment Transport

T ,
I=− e
Fr 2
where: t is time; J =|∂xi / ∂ξ j | is the Jacobian of the geometric transformation from
Cartesian coordinates, xi (i = 1, 2, 3 for x, y, z axes, respectively) to curvilinear coordinates
ξ j (j = 1, 2, 3); p is the static pressure divided by the density; u, v, and w are the velocities in
x, y, and z directions, respectively; T is the temperature. Furthermore, U k = uiξ xi k are the
contravariant velocities in ξ k directions (Note that ui are, respectively, u, v, and w, ξ xi k are
the metrics of the geometric transformation, and repeated indices imply summation); Re is
the Reynolds number; ν t is turbulence eddy viscosity; g ij ( g ij = ξ xi k ξ xj ) is the contravariant
k
metric tensor; Fr is Froude number; e is the unit in the gravity direction. The governing
equation for heat transfer reads as

1 ∂T ∂ ⎧⎪ 1 ⎛ 1 ν ⎞ ∂T ⎫⎪
− ⎨ ⎜ + t ⎟ g lk l ⎬ = 0 . (3)
J ∂t ∂ξ k ⎩⎪ ⎝J Pr Re Prt ⎠ ∂ξ ⎭⎪
where: Pr is the molecular Prandtl number; Prt is the turbulent Prandtl number; l = 1, 2, 3.
The standard mixing length model is used in this work (Mason, 1989). The governing
equations are discretized using a second-order accurate, implicit, finite-volume method on
non-staggered grids, and they are solved using a dual time-stepping artificial compressibility
method. A fourth-difference artificial dissipation method and V-cycle multigrid method are
used. A domain decomposition method in conjunction with the Schwartz alternative
iteration is employed to deal with complicated geometry. In order to achieve seamless
transition of solutions between subdomains, an effective mass conservation algorithm is
proposed. The CFD model has been tested and applied in various problems from academe
as well as industry, such as vortex breakdown and flow past bridge piers (Sotiropoulos and
Ventikos, 1998; Ge and Sotiropoulos, 2005). For details of the CFD model, readers are
referred to Lin & Sotiropoulos (1997), Tang et al. (2003; 2008), and Xu & Sun (2009).
In the FVCOM, the governing equations are the continuity and momentum equations. The
governing equations for the external mode in the model are vertically averaged two-
dimensional (2D) continuity and momentum equations. The 2D continuity equation is (Chen
et al., 2006):

∂η ∂HUl
+ =0, (4)
∂t ∂xl
where: η is the water surface elevation; H is water depth; and Ul are depth-average current
velocities in xl directions. The momentum equations are:

∂Ui H ∂UiUl H
∂t
+
∂xl
= − gH
∂η gH ⎛ 0 ∂
∂xi ρ0 ⎝ ∫−1 ∂xi
− ⎜ (
0
σ )
H ∫ ρ dσ ' dσ +
∂H 0
∂xi ∫−1
⎞
σρ dσ ⎟
⎠ (5)
τ sx − τ bx
+ ( −1)i fU j H + i i
+ DFi + Gi ,
ρ0

∂U iUl H ⎛ ∂u u H ⎞
Gi = − DFi − ⎜⎜ i l − DFi ⎟⎟ ,
∂xl ⎝ ∂x l ⎠
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 75

∂ ⎛ ⎛ ∂U ∂Ul ⎞ ⎞ ∂ ⎛ ⎛ ∂u ∂u ⎞ ⎞
DFi ≈ ⎜⎜ AmD ⎜ i + ⎟ ⎟⎟ , DFi ≈ ⎜⎜ AmD ⎜ i + l ⎟ ⎟⎟ , (6)
∂xl ⎝ ⎝ ∂xl ∂xi ⎠ ⎠ ∂xl ⎝ ⎝ ∂xl ∂xi ⎠ ⎠
where: the overbar denotes the vertical integration; g is the gravity constant; ρ0 is the
reference density of seawater; σ is vertical coordinate; f is the Coriolis parameter; τ sxi are
the surface friction stresses, and τ bxi are the bottom friction stresses in xi directions; D is the
mean water depth; and Am is the horizontal eddy viscosity (Smagorinsky, 1963). The
governing equations of the internal mode in the model are 3D continuity and momentum
equations with x and y as horizontal coordinates and σ as vertical coordinate:

∂η ∂Hul ∂ω (7)
+ + = 0,
∂t ∂xl ∂σ

∂ui H ∂ui ul H ∂uiω

∂t
+
∂xl
+
∂σ
= − gH
∂η gH ⎛ ∂
− ⎜
∂xi ρ0 ⎝ ∂xi
0
σ (
H ∫ ρ dσ ' + σρ
∂H ⎞
)
⎟
∂xi ⎠
(8)
i 1 ∂ ⎛ ∂ui ⎞
+ ( −1) fu j H + ⎜ Km ⎟ + DFi ,
H ∂σ ⎝ ∂σ ⎠

∂ ⎛ ⎛ ∂u ∂u ⎞ ⎞
DFi ≈ ⎜ AmD ⎜ i + l ⎟ ⎟⎟ , (9)
∂xl ⎝⎜ ⎝ ∂xl ∂xi ⎠ ⎠
where: ui are the layer horizontal velocity components; ω is the vertical velocity in σ
coordinate; and Km is the vertical eddy viscosity, which is determined using the Mellor and
Yamada level-2.5 turbulent closure (Mellor & Yamada, 1982; Chen et al., 2003). In the FVCOM:
i, j, l=1, 2 ( i ≠ j ). The governing equations are discretized using a finite-volume method with
triangle meshes on horizontal planes and layer meshes in the vertical direction. Second-order
accurate upwind schemes are used to discretize the advection terms, and Runge-Kutta
methods are employed to march in time. The external and internal modes may have different
time steps. Mainly because it uses unstructured meshes, the FVCOM is becoming popular in
coastal ocean modeling. Details for the FVCOM can be found in Chen et al. (2003; 2006).
In order to simulate multiscale and multiphysics coastal hydrodynamic processes, we
proposed HM and DDM approaches (Tang & Wu, 2010; Wu & Tang 2010). In particular, the
CFD model is coupled with the FVCOM; the CFD model is employed to resolve small-scale
flow phenomena, and the FVCOM is used to model background circulation. The domains of
the CFD model and FVCOM overlap over a region (Fig. 1). As a coupling strategy, the 3D
CFD model is coupled to the 3D internal mode of the FVCOM, and the two models
exchange solutions for the velocity distributions at grid interfaces between them. The
strategy is based on the assumption that the obstacle covered by the CFD model only alters
local velocity distribution but does not affect horizontal average velocities and water surface
elevation, which are determined by the external mode. This assumption is consistent with
the assumption in the FVCOM (Chen et al., 2003). Since Chimera grids (grids overlapping
arbitrarily with each other) provide the best possible flexibility in connecting different
models, we employed them to connect the CFD model and the FVCOM, as shown in Fig. 2.
In the figure, a-b-c and d-e-f are grid interfaces between CFD model and FVCOM, and linear
interpolations are made to provide solutions for velocities at the nodes and elements on the
interfaces. The details of the coupling methods can be found in Tang & Wu (2010) and Wu &
Tang (2010).
76 Sediment Transport

Fig. 1. Schematic representation of CFD model and FVCOM coupling.

(a) (b)
Fig. 2. Layout of grids of CFD and FVCOM. Solid lines – FVCOM grid, dash lines – CFD
grid. a) Horizontal plane grids. b) Vertical direction grids.

Fig. 3. Region of study, bathymetry, FVCOM mesh, and diffuser location.

Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 77

Consider an effluent discharge from a diffuser in the setting of the New York and New
Jersey coastal region under action of tides (Fig. 3). The x axis is in the east direction, and
y axis is in the north direction. The diffuser is located in the New York Bight. The diffuser
consists of a pipe with a diameter of 1.32 m lying on the ocean bottom, and ten ports with
diameters of 0.175 m (Fig. 4a). All of the ten ports have an angle of 110o with respect to the
x axis and upward angles with respect to the x-y plane ranging evenly from 45° to 18° from
the first port, located near the origin of the plane, to the last port. Hot water at 32.0 °C is
discharged at speed 3.92 ms-1 from the ports into the coastal water at 20.5 °C. The only
driving force of the flow is tides; wind and other factors are ignored. This is a multiscale
flow; the thermal effluent happens at scales of the discharge ports and the pipe, while the
unsteady tides occur at scales of the tides.
The hybrid approach is used to simulate the flow; the CFD model captures the flow around
the effluent from the diffuser, and the FVCOM describes the background large-scale flows.
The mesh of the FVCOM is shown in Fig. 3, and those of the CFD model for the diffuser are
shown in Fig. 4b. The CFD model and modeling of such thermal discharges have been
intensively tested and calibrated using other models and measurement data (Tang et al.,
2008). The coupling approach has been also validated (Tang & Wu, 2010; Wu & Tang, 2010).
The computed solutions are shown in Figs. 5, 6, 7, and 8. Fig. 5 presents the large-scale
coastal flows at ebb and flood tides obtained with the FVCOM. It is seen from the figure that
there are many total velocity patches, in red and blue, at scales ranging from 104 to 105 m.
The thermal discharge, located near x, y = 0, is at the edges of a relative high velocity patch.
No solution details for flows around the diffuser are available from simulations of the
FVCOM; however, the CFD model provides the details. For example, Fig. 6 presents velocity
distribution at a plane 6 m above the diffuser. Due to the presence of the diffuser and
thermal effluent, the flow field during both ebb and flood tides is greatly altered; there are
several velocity patches at scales of 10 m and larger, together with a low-velocity region at
downstream side of the diffuser, which runs from x, y = 0 to the northwest direction (Fig. 6).
Especially, there is a large vortex right behind the diffuser in case of flood tides.

(a) (b)
Fig. 4. (a) Configurations of the diffuser. (b) CFD Meshes for the diffuser
78 Sediment Transport

As seen in Fig. 4a, the discharge ports point to the northeastern direction, and thus the hot
water jets should be in the same direction. Fig. 7 indicates that during ebb tides, the jets are
initially towards northeast but shortly later, due to the northwestern ambient tide currents,
they turn towards the northwestern direction. While during flood tides, the jets and the
currents are in about same directions, the thermal plume runs to a far downstream location.
The CFD model has a high resolution at the mouth of the ports, with 10 grid nodes across
the port diameter of order 1 cm resolution. As demonstrated in our previous studies (Tang
et al., 2008), the CFD model accurately resolves velocities and temperature at the mouths of
all ports using this mesh resolution.

(a) (b)
Fig. 5. Large-scale surface velocity field at (a) flood tides and (b) ebb tides.

(a) (b)

Fig. 6. Local velocity on a plane 6 m above the diffuser at (a) flood and (b) ebb tide.
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 79

(a) (b)
Fig. 7. 3D temperature plume at (a) flood and (b) ebb tide.

(u2+v2)1/2 (m/s) 0.05 T (°C)

20 20.48 20.54 20.6 20.66

15
Z (m)

10

0
-20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
Y (m)
(a)

(u2+v2)1/2 (m/s) 0.05 T (°C)

20 20.48 20.54 20.6 20.66

15
Z (m)

10

0
-20 -10 0 10 20 30 40
Y (m)
(b)
Fig. 8. Cross-section velocity and temperature at 10 m downstream from the diffuser in the x
direction. (a) Flood tide. (b) Ebb tide.
Figure 8 shows the temperature and velocity field at a vertical cross-section, which is at the
east side of diffuser. In case of the flood tides, the currents and thermal jets from all ports are
in opposite directions and the thermal plume cannot reach this section whereas, for ebb
tides, they are in the same directions and the plume is still strong on the section. In the latter
case, the jets from individual ports already have merged with each other and no individual
80 Sediment Transport

plumes are observed, and this is the result of intensive mixing in the cross-section (Fig. 8b).
As shown in Fig. 8, there are fast lateral currents along the cross-section. Due to interaction
of the effluent flows and the cross-section currents, there are vertical vortices next to the
head of the diffuser, located near x, y = 0. It should be noted that all these small structures of
the flow and temperature fields are only captured by the CFD model, and they are not
available from the FVCOM.

3. Scour around a diffuser at the seabed

This section discusses erosion and scour around the diffuser based on the modeling results
for the multiscale hydrodynamic processes in the previous section. Including potential scour
computations on all of these FVCOM and CFD grids is beyond the scope of the current
work. Instead, the results of the flow field at 1 mab (meter above bed) from the overlapping
grids are averaged for 1 m2 boxes. The area of interest is centered on the diffuser and
represented by a grid of 40 x 70 cells that are 1 m along each axis. The output from the
different grids is available at a range of heights above the seafloor; we have chosen 1 m as
the representative height for the shear stress computations. All of the grids are included in
the average, which produces fields for the flood and the ebb tides.
No wave data are used in these hydrodynamic simulations, which aim only to show the
influence of tidal flow. The sedimentation computations do not include advection and no
sediment is transported; the plots thus show the equilibrium resuspension depth HR as
defined by Keen and Glenn (1998). These depths are a good indication of scour at shorter
time scales. The scour depths shown in the plots represent the total that would occur over
an approximately 1-hour period for which the bottom currents would be representative.
The mean currents during flood tide are very low but the distribution has additional
structure not seen in the FVCOM output (Fig. 9a). A very similar pattern is predicted during
ebb tide (Fig. 9b). This area is likely to be the focus for erosion. The bottom sediment at this
general location is expected to be variable because of its proximity to the Hudson River
Canyon and the resulting large sediment outflow from the Hudson River. The available
sediment samples indicate available sediment from clay to sand (USGS 2010). We are using
a representative sediment distribution of 20 classes ranging from 4 microns to 2000 microns
(clay to gravel). The uniform sediment is represented by a mean of 100 microns (very fine
sand) with a standard deviation of 40 microns. This specific sediment population includes
55% clay and 44% very fine sand, with < 1 % fine sand. The computed critical shear stresses
are 0.465 and 0.4388 Pa, respectively for the dominant sizes.
Detailed simulations of erosion would require unavailable field data for the area. We are
using the erosion rate formulation from Ariathurai et al (1983):

Ei = M (τb / τc,i -1) (10)

where: M is the entrainment rate; τb is the bottom shear stress; τc,i is the critical shear stress
for entrainment of size class i. This formula is useful for adjusting entrainment for unknown
areas. The value of M used in these simulations is 0.001 kg m-2 s-1. The bottom shear stress is
estimated from the common formulation:

τb = ρwCd(u2+v2) (11)
where: ρw is the water density, which is set to1025 kg m-3,
and Cd is the coefficient of drag,
which is set to 1. The large drag coefficient is necessary because the currents from the model
were too low to exceed τc for the sediment used. Including wave effects would improve this
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 81

calculation. The resulting field of τb shows the effect of the diffuser (Fig. 10). Note that the
bed stress is not symmetrical. Larger shear stresses are generated during the ebb tide and
the pattern is slightly different from the flood. The persistent high shear stress is caused by
the increased flow around the diffuser. This is partly attributable to the consistent seaward
flow near x = -8 m during both flood and ebb tides, which is caused by a diffuser outflow of
~3.92 ms-1. The diffuser flow is offshore, which appears to reinforce the ebb tide and make it
more localized. This results in the concentration of higher stress around the outlets.

50 50

0.2 (m/s) 0.2 (m/s)

40 40 2 2 1/2
(u2+v2)1/2 (u +v )
(m/s) (m/s)
30 0.10 30 0.10

Y (m)
Y (m)

0.08 0.08
0.06 0.06
20 20 0.04
0.04
0.02 0.02
0.00 10 0.00
10

0 0

-10 0 10 20 -10 0 10 20

X (m) X (m)

(a) (b)
Fig. 9. Averaged currents from all CFD grids at 1 mab. (a) Flood tide; maximum velocity is
0.40223 m s-1. (b) Ebb tide; maximum velocity is 0.40676 m s-1.

50 50

40 40
τb (Pa) τb (Pa)

30 4.0 30 4.0
Y (m)

Y (m)

3.0 3.0
2.0 2.0
20 1.0 20 1.0
0.0 0.0
10 10

0 0

-10 0 10 20 -10 0 10 20
X (m) X (m)

(a) (b)
Fig. 10. Bottom drag calculated from Eq. (11). (a) Flooding tide; maximum shear stress is
165.83 Pa. (b) Ebb tide; maximum shear stress is 169.59 Pa.
82 Sediment Transport

The pattern of potential scour for the flood (Fig. 11a) and ebb (Fig. 11b) tides is reflective of
the shear stresses. Note the greater scour seaward of the northern end of the diffuser during
the ebb tide. This pattern is due to the fact that, as shown in Fig. 4a, the ports near the end
have lower angles in comparison with the ports at the other end, and this leads to a stronger
horizontal velocity and more intensive shearing at the end. These calculations of potential
scour demonstrate the importance of calculating the detailed flow around the obstruction.
No calculations were performed for the FVCOM flow fields because it provided uniform
near-bottom flow with a small magnitude. These simulations suggest that there could be
substantial scour and possible damage to the structure if not considered in its design. The
scour depths would be greatly increased by the impact of storm waves 1-4 m high, which
occur frequently during the fall and winter in the Middle Atlantic Bight (Keen & Glenn,
1995).

50 50

40 40
E i (mm) E i (mm)

30 2.0 30 2.0
Y (m)

Y (m)

1.5 1.5
1.0 1.0
20 0.5 20 0.5
0.0 0.0
10 10

0 0

-10 0 10 20 -10 0 10 20
X (m) X (m)

(a) (b)
Fig. 11. Potential scour calculated from Eq. (10). (a) Flood tide; maximum erosion is 370.35
mm. (b) Ebb tide; maximum erosion is 378.76 mm.

4. Evolution of sand dunes under action of surface waves

The governing equation for wave action is given in a conservation form as (e.g., Mei, 1983):

∂N ∂C gxl N ∂Cσ N ∂Cθ N S

+ + + = , (12)
∂t ∂xl ∂σ ∂θ σ

where: t is the time; l =1, 2, and xl correspond to x and y directions; σ is the frequency; and
θ is the angle of the wave propagation direction; N is the wave action; C gxl are the wave
speed in xl direction in the physical space (x, y); Cσ and Cθ are, respectively, wave speed in
σ and θ direction in the spectrum space ( σ , θ ); S is a source term that represents the
combined effects of wind and other processes. In the current study, short waves are
considered, which leads to a simple expression for C gxl (Mei, 1983).
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 83

The shallow water equations consist of the equation of mass conservation (e.g., Mei, 1983)

∂H ∂HUl
+ =0, (13)
∂t ∂xl
and the equations of momentum conservation:

∂HU i ∂HUiU l ∂η ∂ ⎛ ⎛ ∂U ∂Ui ⎞ ⎞ τ sxi − τ bxi 1 ∂Sxi xl

+ = − gH + ⎜⎜ν t H ⎜ l + ⎟⎟ + − , (14)
∂t ∂xl ∂xi ∂xi ⎝ ⎝ ∂xi ∂xl ⎠ ⎟⎠ ρ ρ ∂xl

where: i,l =1, 2; ν t is the turbulence eddy viscosity; ρ is the density; η is the water surface
elevation; Sxi xl are the radiation stresses resulting from waves.
The seabed morphology is controlled by the Exner equation (e.g., Henderson, 1966; Sleath,
1984):

∂H b ∂BU l (U12 + U 2 2 )q
+ =0. (15)
∂t ∂xl

Here Hb is the elevation of the seabed, and B and q are constants. Typically, B depends on
flow velocity, water depth, sediment grain sizes, and other factors, and q is usually in the
range of 0.5 ≤ q ≤ 1.5 . In this paper, q = 1 is used (Hudson & Sweby, 2005; Kubatko et al.,
2006).
The interactions among waves, currents, and morphology can be seen in the governing
equations. In Eq. (12), the wave action is related to wave speed C gxl ; these are coupled with
the current through the velocity Ul in Eq. (12) (Mei, 1983). As indicated in Eq. (14), the
current is affected by the wave field through the radiation Sxi xl , and morphology evolution
through bottom elevation Hb ( η = H + H b ). Actually, the current is also affected by wind
through the bottom stresses τ bxi . Morphology is directly related to the current through the
velocity field as shown in Eq. (15). Details for the governing equations can be found in Tang
et al. (2009).
Equations (12) through (15) comprise a coupled non-homogeneous system of conservation
laws. Each component in the system reproduces the framework of well-known models. For
instance, the wave action equation (12) is employed in SWAN (Booij et al., 1999), the shallow
water equations (13) and (14) are used for SHORECIRC (Luettich and Westerink, 2004), and
the morphology evolution equation (15) is also widely employed in engineering (e.g., Wu,
2004; Kubatko et al., 2006). In order to solve the system, an extension of the Lax-Friedrich
scheme (Lax, 1954) is applied to discretize the wave action equation (12). Second, the
MacCormack scheme (MacCormack, 1969) is employed to solve the shallow water
equations. Finally, the fourth Euler scheme and central difference operator are used to solve
the morphology equation. The coupled system and the code have been validated and
calibrated using a series of problems. For details of the discretization, validation, and
calibration, the readers are referred to Tang & et al. (2009).
The above coupled wave, current, and morphology system is applied to study evolution of
sand dunes under action of surface waves on the horizontal plane. The initial conditions for
the wave energy, the velocity field, and the bottom shape are, respectively

N=0, (16a)
84 Sediment Transport

n
{
U1=0, U2=0, H=2- ∑ exp −0.01(( x − 0.5i )2 + y 2 ) ,
i =1
} (16b)

n
Hb = ∑ exp{−0.01(( x − 0.5m)2 + y 2 )} , (16c)
m=1

where n is the number of sand dunes. In this study, n = 1, 2, 3. The upstream boundary
condition is
H = 2m, x = −15m. (17)
The wind effect is introduced as a source term in Eq. (12) at the upstream end:

S = 0.15(1 − tanh(20 + x − 0.01t )) , (18)

which generates surface waves starting at the upstream end and propagating in the x
direction. In the simulation, Δx , Δy = 0.4 m, Δσ = 0.1 s-1, and Δθ =0.76 radians. Extrapolation
is used to update solutions at the boundaries. Other related parameters are the same as
those presented in our previous study on a single sand dune case (Tang et al., 2009).

(a)

(b) (c)
Fig. 12. Evolution of sand dunes (seabed elevation)
As seen in Eq. (18), the driving force S is a wave propagating in the x direction. The driving
force generates a train of surface waves traveling in the same direction. The computed
instantaneous evolution of sand dune elevation, surface height, and wave action, are
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 85

presented in Figs. 12 through 14 for three sand dunes (n=3). As shown in Fig. 12, as the wind
blows from left to the right, all three sand dunes move in the x direction, and gradually they
merge with each other. During this process, each sand dune is changing from a circle into a
triangle, a steroidal, and then a strip, which are the three typical shapes of sand dunes in
their evolution. At the same time, low-elevation regions are forming at the front, lateral
sides, and immediately behind the three sand dunes. In Fig. 13, it is seen that the water
surface has a bump in front and a dip behind each of the three dunes. In comparison with
sand dune configurations in Fig. 12, it is known from Fig. 14 that wave action reaches
minimums above all sand dunes and maximums right behind them. From Figs. 12 and 13 it
is seen that, during the evolution of the sand dunes, both the wave field and water surface
elevation evolve congruently with the sand dunes. Figure 14 reveals clear traces of bed
morphology, which indicates its strong effect on the wave field.

(a)

(b) (c)
Fig. 13. Evolution of water surface elevation
Figure 15 shows the evolution of the heights and locations of three sand dunes as the wave
is propagating towards the right. An interesting note is that the height of the first dune, the
leading dune that is most upstream, decreases faster at the beginning (t < 470 s) in comparison
with the heights of the other two dunes. As seen in Fig. 15a, however, at about t = 470 s the
second and the third disappear or they merge with the first one, whereas the first still exists.
After the disappearance of the second and third sand dunes, the height of the first dune
remains about the same for a while. It is seen in Fig. 15b that, as all three dunes are about to
merge with each other at t = 470 s, the first sand dune moves faster than the other two, with
a large dx/dt, which accelerates the merging process.
86 Sediment Transport

(a)

(b) (c)
Fig. 14. Evolution of wave action

(a) (b)
Fig. 15. Evolution of 3-dune. a) Heights of sand dunes. b) Location of sand dunes
Comparison of Figs. 12 through 14 with those obtained from modeling of single sand dunes
(not shown) suggests that the evolution of a sand dune in the case of multiple sand dunes is
consistent with a single sand dune in certain aspects, such as the shape of sand dunes
(e.g., Hudson & Sweby, 2005; Tang et al., 2009). Nevertheless, sand dune development in
situations of multiple sand dunes indeed behaves differently. In Fig. 16, the simulated results
for situations of 1, 2, and 3 sand dunes (n = 1, 2, and 3 in Eq. 16) are presented, which shows
the heights and locations of the leading or the most upstream sand dunes. The most interesting
Hybrid Model Approaches to Predict Multiscale and
Multiphysics Coastal Hydrodynamic and Sediment Transport Processes 87

finding in this figure is that, in case of multiple sand dunes, the heights of the leading sand
dunes decrease slower but they move downstream faster. The larger the number of the sand
dunes, the more pronounced this trend. It is also seen that the evolutions of heights and
locations of the leading sand dunes in case of 2 and 3 sand dunes are not much different, but
they are obviously distinct from that of an isolated sand dune (Fig. 16). This is a clear
indication of the interaction between individual sand dunes and their resulting
hydrodynamics.

(a) (b)
Fig. 16. Evolutions of the leading sand dunes in case of 1-, 2-, and 3-dune. a) Heights of sand
dunes. b) Locations of sand dunes

5. Concluding remarks
This chapter presents the needs to simulate multiscale and multiphysics coastal ocean
hydrodynamics and the necessity to include its effects in estimation of seabed sediment
scour and morphology evolution. It describes the multiscale and multiphysics method the
authors proposed as a prominent approach, which is a hybrid method in conjunction with
the domain decomposition method. The feasibility and potential of the approach in resolving
multiscale and multiphysics processes is demonstrated using example computations.
The potential scour for the seabed diffuser indicates two important results: (1) the additional
detail of the flow field computed by the CFD model is critical in capturing the areas of scour
by tides; and (2) it is necessary to include waves for both mean and storm conditions to
estimate the cumulative potential scour around the diffuser. The local scour problem can be
computed using a high-resolution model but this would not permit an examination of
variations within the seafloor area of interest. This is especially true for waves, which are
sensitive to slight changes in water depth. The modeling of sand dunes illustrates the strong
interaction between surface waves, currents, and morphology. The simulation presents
interesting features of sand dunes with respect to their heights and locations, and it clearly
indicates that evolution of multiple sand dunes is distinct from that of single sand dunes.

6. Acknowledgement
The first author was supported by PSC-CUNY Research Award. The second author was
funded by the Office of Naval Research through the Naval Research Laboratory 6.1 Core
program.
88 Sediment Transport

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 5

Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the

Application to Settling Flux Modelling
A. J. Manning1,2, J. V. Baugh1,
R. L. Soulsby1, J. R. Spearman1 and R. J. S. Whitehouse1
1HR
Wallingford, Howbery Park, Wallingford,
Oxfordshire, OX10 8BA,
2Marine Physics Research Group, School of Marine Science & Engineering,

University of Plymouth, Portland Square Building (A410),

Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA
UK

1. Introduction
The majority of the particulate matter which accumulates within an estuary is commonly
referred to as mud. Mud is typically composed of mineral grains which originate from both
fluvial and marine sources, together with biological matter - both living and in various
stages of decomposition. It is the combination of these features that make estuarine muds
sticky in nature and for this reason these sediment types are referred to generically as
cohesive sediment (Whitehouse et al., 2000).
The primary mineral component of cohesive muds are clay minerals. Clays have a plate-like
structure, and generally have a diameter of less than 2 μm. Cohesion arises through the
combined efforts of both the electrostatic charging of the clay minerals as they pass through
brackish to highly saline water, and various biogenic long-chain polymer molecules which
adhere to individual particle surfaces, such as sticky mucopolysaccharides. Edzwald and
O’Melia (1975) conducted experiments with pure kaolinite, and found that their flocculation
efficiency was less than 10%. Where as Kranck (1984) found that the flocculation of mineral
particles which contained some organic matter, greatly enhanced the settling velocity of the
aggregates (Fig. 1). The efficiency with which the particles coagulate is a reflection of the
stability of the suspension (van Leussen, 1994). The statistical occurrence of collisions further
increases as the abundance of particles in suspension rise. A suspension is classified as
unstable when it becomes fully flocculated, and is stable when all particles remain as
individual entities.
From a water quality perspective, cohesive sediments have the propensity to adsorb
contaminants (Ackroyd et al., 1986; Stewart and Thomson, 1997). This in turn has a direct
effect on water quality and related environmental issues (e.g. Uncles et al., 1998). Accurately
predicting the movement of muddy sediments in an estuary therefore is highly desirable. In
contrast to non-cohesive sandy sediments, muddy sediments can flocculate (Winterwerp
and van Kesteren, 2004) and this poses a serious complication to modellers of estuarine
sediment dynamics.
92 Sediment Transport

This chapter provides the following:

• An outline of the flocculation process
• Flocculation measurement methods and the importance of data
• Floc settling behaviour
• Examples of cohesive sediment depositional model approaches, including ways of
parameterising flocculation

Fig. 1. Flocculation and destabilisation by adsorbed polymers (after Gregory, 1978).

2. Flocculation overview
Cohesive sediments have the potential to flocculate into larger aggregates termed flocs
(Winterwerp and van Kesteren, 2004; see example in Fig. 2). Floc sizes (D) can range over
four orders of magnitude, from individual clay particles of 1 μm to stringer-type floc
structures several centimetres in length. An individual floc may comprise up to 106
individual particulates, and as flocs grow in size their effective densities (i.e. bulk density
minus the water density), ρe, generally decrease (Tambo and Watanabe, 1979; Klimpel and
Hogg, 1986; Droppo et al., 2000), but their settling speeds (Ws) rise due to a Stokes’ Law
relationship (Dyer and Manning, 1998). The general trend exhibited by floc effective
densities by a number of authors is shown in Fig 3. A typical floc size vs. settling velocity
distribution from the Tamar Estuary (UK) is illustrated in Fig 4. One can immediately see
that for a constant Ws, there is a wide range in D and ρe. Similarly, for a constant D, there is
a large spread in both Ws and ρe. Like the floc size, the settling velocities can also typically
range over four orders of magnitude, from 0.01 mm s-1 up to several centimetres per second
(Lick, 1994).
Kranck and Milligan (1992) observed that under the majority of estuarine conditions, most
suspended particulate matter (SPM) within an estuary occurs in the form of flocs. Of the
various physical processes which occur during a tidal cycle, flocculation of the sediment is
regarded as one of the primary mechanisms which can affect the deposition, erosion and
consolidation rates. The flocculation process is dynamically active which is directly affected
by its environmental conditions, primarily being dependent on a complex set of interactions
between sediment, fluid and flow within which the particles aggregation plays a major role
(Manning, 2004a). Flocculation is therefore a principle mechanism which controls how fine
sediments are transported throughout an estuary.
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 93

Fig. 2. Sizes of clay particles, flocs and floc groups (after McDowell and O'Connor, 1977)

1000
G
Effective Density (kgm )
-3

F
100 A

E B
D
10
G

1
C

0.1
1 10 100 1000 10000
Floc size (microns)
Fig. 3. Comparative results of effective density against floc size. A = Manning and Dyer
(1999), B = Al Ani et al. (1991), C = Alldredge and Gotschalk (1988), D = Fennessy et al. (1994b),
E = Gibbs (1985), F = McCave (1975), and G = McCave (1984) (from Manning and Dyer, 1999).
The degree of flocculation is highly dependent upon both the SPM concentration and
turbulent shear (e.g. Krone, 1962; Parker et al., 1972; McCave, 1984; Burban et al. 1989; van
Leussen, 1994; Winterwerp, 1998; Manning, 2004a), and both of these parameters can vary
spatially and temporally throughout an estuary. A conceptual model which attempts to
explain the linkage between floc structure and floc behaviour in an aquatic environment is
provided by Droppo (2001). As a result of dynamic inter-particle collisions, floc growth
implies large variations in the sediment settling flux with direct implications on the vertical
distribution of sediment loading.
94 Sediment Transport

100
τ = 0.45 N m-2
SPM = 0.25 g l-1

WsMACRO = 2.2 mm s-1

10
Wsmicro = 0.8 mm s-1
Ws (mms )
-1

1
1600

0.1
160
16
0.01

160 μm
MACROFLOCS
10 100 1000
Size (microns)
Fig. 4. An example of an INSSEV measured floc population from the Tamar Estuary (UK)
illustrating the relationships between floc size and settling velocities of individual flocs
during neap tide conditions. The diagonal lines represent values of constant effective
density (kg m-3). Macrofloc: microfloc segregation is indicated by the dotted line at 160 μm
(from Manning, 2004c).
It has been generalised that there are two distinct component groups of flocs: macroflocs and
microflocs (Eisma, 1986; Manning, 2001). Many floc suspensions exist as bi-modally
distributed populations (e.g. Manning and Dyer, 2002a; Lee et al., 2010). These two floc
fractions form part of Krone’s (1963) classic order of aggregation.
Macroflocs (Fig. 5) are large, highly porous (> 90%), fast settling aggregates which are
typically the same size as the turbulent Kolmogorov (1941) microscale. Macroflocs (D > 160
μm) are recognised as the most important sub-group of flocs, as their fast settling velocities
tend to have the most influence on the mass settling flux (Mehta and Lott, 1987). Their
fragile, low density structure means they are sensitive to physical disruption during
sampling. Macroflocs are progressively broken down as they pass through regions of higher
turbulent shear stress, and reduced again to their component microfloc sub-structure
(Glasgow and Lucke, 1980). They rapidly attain equilibrium with the local turbulent
environment.
The smaller microflocs (Fig. 5; D < 160 μm) are generally considered to be the building
blocks from which the macroflocs are composed. Microflocs are much more resistant to
break-up by turbulent shear. Generally they tend to have slower settling velocities, but
exhibit a much wider range in effective densities than the larger macroflocs (e.g. McCave,
1975; Alldredge and Gotschalk, 1988; Fennessy et al., 1994a).
In order for flocculation to occur, suspended particles must come into contact with each
other. Van Leussen (1988) theoretically assessed the comparative influence of the three main
collision mechanisms: Brownian motion, turbulent shear and differential settling (see Fig. 6),
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 95

τ = 0.3 N m-2
-2 SPM = 3.5 g l -1
τ = 0.3 N m Ws = 5 mm s -1
SPM = 3.5 g l-1
Ws = 8 mm s -1

1.2 mm 2 mm

τ = 0.45 N m-2
-2 SPM = 0.25 g l -1
τ = 0.45 N m
SPM = 0.25 g l -1 Ws = 0.2 mm s -1 0.5 mm
Ws = 1.8 mm s-1 0.5 mm

Fig. 5. Illustrative examples of real estuarine floc images. Ambient shear stress,
concentration and settling velocity values are provided (from Manning and Dyer, 2002).
and deduced that turbulent shear stresses ranging between 0.03-0.8 Pa, provided the
dominant flocculation collision mechanism. Turbulent shear stress can impose a maximum
floc size restriction on a floc population in tidal waters (McCave, 1984). Tambo and Hozumi
(1979) showed that when the floc diameter was larger than the length-scale of the energy
dissipating eddies, the aggregate would break-up. Similarly, Eisma (1986) observed a
general agreement between the maximum floc size and the smallest turbulent eddies as
categorised by Kolmogorov (1941). Both Puls et al., (1988), and Kranck and Milligan (1992)
have hypothesised that both SPM concentration and turbulence are thought to have an
effect on the maximum floc size, and the resulting spectra. As SPM concentration increases,
the influence of particle collisions can also act as a floc break-up mechanism. Floc break-up
by three-particle collisions tends to be the most effective mechanism (Burban et al., 1989).
Settling velocity is regarded as the basic parameter used in determining suspended
sediment deposition rates in either still or flowing water. Much has been documented on
non-cohesive sediments (coarse silts and larger), and it is possible to calculate the settling
96 Sediment Transport

velocity of low concentrations in suspension, using well defined expressions (e.g. Stokes’
Law), from the relative density, size and shape of the particles, since the only forces
involved are gravity and the flow resistance of the particle. However, the settling velocity of
flocculated, cohesive sediments in estuaries are significantly greater than the constituent
particles. Based on the research of Stolzenbach and Elimelich (1994) and Gregory (1978),
Winterwerp and Van Kesteren (2004) concluded that although flocs are porous in
composition, they can be treated as impermeable entities when considering their settling
speeds.

Fig. 6. Comparison of collision mechanisms: Brownian motion (KBM), differential settling

(KDS) and turbulent shear (KDS), for different particle diameters (After Van Leussen, 1994).
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 97

A knowledge of floc effective density is also important in the calculation of vertical settling
fluxes since the majority of the suspended mass is contained in the low density, high settling
velocity, large flocs (Mehta and Lott, 1987). Furthermore, the rheological properties of
suspended particulate matter are governed by volume concentrations, as opposed to mass
concentrations (Dyer, 1989).

3. Flocculation measurement methods and the importance of data

Hayter and Mehta (1982) and Whitehouse et al. (2000) both indicated that many parameters
need to be determined in order to fully describe a cohesive sediment type and physical
behaviour. Flocs are multi-component, being composed of varying proportions and types of
inorganic and organic particles, and the packing (i.e. density) of these grains within a floc
can significantly affect their resultant size and settling velocity. It is this complexity that
means it is not a simple task to mathematically describe the mud flocculation process on a
fundamental basis (Milligan and Hill, 1998; Mikkelsen and Pejrup, 1998). The principle
reason for such a poor understanding of cohesive sediment settling fluxes and deposition
rates, has been principally due to a lack of reliable floc data, although the situation is now
improving. The influence of floc density variations are required for accurate settling flux
determination. Therefore a key to rectifying this problem is to use a floc sampling system
which directly measures (in-situ) both the simultaneous size and settling velocity of the
larger and more fragile flocs.
It is difficult to accurately quantify the influence and occurrence of flocculation, as well as
floc break-up, on in-situ estuarine floc distributions. The fragility of large, fastest settling
macroflocs, which are easily broken-up upon sampling (Gibbs and Konwar, 1983), has
tended to preclude the direct measurement of floc settling and mass characteristics due to
instrumentation limitations (Eisma et al., 1997). Floc disruptive devices include field settling
tubes (FST), such as the Owen tube (Owen, 1976). These instruments are the original devices
used to determine the in situ settling properties of flocculated mud. The Owen tube is the
most universally known of all FSTs. It was developed during the 1960’s at Hydraulics
Research Station Wallingford (now HR Wallingford Ltd) by M.W. Owen (1971, 1976).
Collected water samples are extracted from the bottom of the tube at pre-selected time
intervals and the settling velocity is inferred from gravimetric analysis (Vanoni, 1975), and
tends to significantly under-estimated Ws.
Floc breakage occurs in response to the additional shear created during acquisition (Eisma et
al., 1997). The presence of large estuarine macroflocs was initially observed in-situ by
underwater photography (Eisma et al, 1990). To overcome this problem less invasive
techniques for measuring floc size and settling velocity in situ have been developed, for
example VIS (van Leussen and Cornelisse, 1994), INSSECT (Mikkelsen et al., 2004), INSSEV
(Fennessy et al., 1994b; see Fig. 7), LabSFLOC (Manning, 2006; see Fig. 8), and the HoloCam
(Graham and Nimmo Smith, 2010). Unlike particle sizers (e.g. Agrawal and Pottsmith, 2000;
Benson and French, 2007; Law et al., 1997), these instruments can provide direct
simultaneous measurements of floc size and settling velocity, in-situ, and permit an estimate
of individual floc effective density by applying a modified Stokes’ Law. These types of
measurements make possible the computation of the floc mass distribution across a range of
sizes (Fennessy et al., 1997).
Optical devices to measure concentration profiles by Spinrad et al. (1989), Kineke et al.
(1989), and McCave and Gross (1991) have sought to quantify the rate of water clearance,
98 Sediment Transport

a)

Floc
collection
chamber

Floc
settling
column Video
camera

b)

ADV

OBS
INSSEV

Fig. 7. a) Side view of INSSEV instrument mounted on a metal deployment frame. b) Front
view of the INSSEV instrument (right), together with optical backscatter (OBS) sensors and an
acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV) positioned on a vertical pole (left). The ADV provides
high frequency turbulence data which can be directly related to the floc populations.
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 99

but they are unable, like all earlier instrumentation, to measure particle size and settling
velocity spectra directly. Whereas sampling devices which directly observe D and Ws can
provide an insight into the interaction of flocs with both turbulent eddies and SPM
concentration variations during a tidal cycle, particularly within the lower layers of the flow
where the turbulent shearing is at its greatest (Mehta and Partheniades, 1975). Deploying
floc samplers in conjunction with high frequency velocimeters provides scientists a means of
accurately acquiring time series of both the spectral distribution of the floc dry mass and
settling velocities, together with information on the turbulence fluctuations, directly from
within a turbulent estuarine water column. Such site-specific information of floc settling
velocity spectra is a prerequisite for accurate physical process parameterisation, especially
for the implementation into sediment transport modelling applications (Manning, 2004c).

Camera control Auxiliary

unit monitor

Video camera Settling

column

S-VHS recorder

Fig. 8. LabSFLOC set-up (from Manning, 2006).

4. Floc settling behaviour

For non-cohesive sediment, the settling velocity can be regarded as being proportional to the
particle size. However, as discussed earlier in this chapter, many estuarine locations tend to
be dominated by muddy flocculated sediments and an accurate representation of the
vertical sediment settling fluxes for cohesive sediments is problematic. As a result, the sizes
and settling velocities of flocs are key parameters in the modelling of cohesive sediment
transport in near-shore waters (e.g. Geyer et al., 2000; Cheviet et al., 2002).
Throughout a tidal cycle there are slack water periods (usually around times of high and
low water), when the current flow which transports suspended matter in an estuary
decreases quite significantly. It is at these times of slack water in the tidal cycle, there tend to
be an absence of a significant amount of vertical exchange and allows suspended flocculated
matter to deposit to the bed. Stringer flocs have been observed in many European estuaries
by underwater cameras (Manning and Dyer, 2002a; Fennessy et al., 1994b) and it has been
speculated that they are the result of particle scavenging through differential settling.
Particle interaction by differential settling is where larger particles have larger settling
velocities, and therefore fall onto relatively smaller particles. Stolzenbach and Elimelich
100 Sediment Transport

(1994) have suggested that differential settling is not an important contact mechanism, and
may only occur within quiescent waters, particularly slack tide periods.
In still water, the rate of deposition of flocculated sediments is described by the rate of
change of sediment mass (m) per unit area, or in other words the gradient dm/dt, where t is
time. The depositional rate is equal to the product of the SPM concentration and settling
velocity (at any point in time and space), which is known as the mass settling flux (MSF)
towards the bed. Where detailed settling information is not available, it is quite common for
a median settling velocity, Ws50, to be used, although this can produce a misleading
representation of the actual settling behaviour of individual floc populations.
Whitehouse et al (2000) note that it is highly probable that a concentration gradient will
develop in an estuarine water column in very turbid and tidally active estuaries, e.g. Severn
Estuary in the UK (Manning et al., 2009). This means that the near-bed concentration will be
greater than the depth-averaged SPM value. As more flocs are deposited to the bed, the
near-bed concentration gradient will rise. Thus the amount of SPM higher in water column
will progressively decrease with time as more flocculated matter settles to the bed. This will
lead to a gradually decrease in the depositional rate. For example, in the Severn Estuary,
Whitehouse et al. (2000) found settling fluxes rose to a peak of about 60 x 10-3 kg m-2s-1 at a
SPM of 25 kg m-3. The MSF then rapidly decreases with rising concentration, due to
hindered settling effects.
In tidal estuaries, the ambient hydrodynamics very rarely produce perfectly quiescent water
column conditions. The mechanisms of the deposition of cohesive sediment in flowing
water was originally studied through the use of laboratory flume experiments by Krone
(1962), and Einstein and Krone (1962). Further flume experiments were conducted (see
Partheniades, 1962; Postma, 1962; Mehta, 1988; Burt and Game, 1985; Delo, 1988). The role of
turbulence on settling flocs was also examined by Owen (1971) and Wolanski et al. (1992).
Furthermore, field measurements of the deposition of muddy sediments in estuaries during
single tides have been undertaken by HR Wallingford (Diserens et al., 1991).
Classically deposition of the cohesive sediment to the bed occurs only when the bottom
shear stress falls below some critical value, with the deposition rate proportional to the
deficit of shear stress below that critical value. Erosion of cohesive sediment particles from
near the estuary bed usually only occur when the bed shear stress rises above some critical
value, with the erosion rate depending in some way on the excess of stress above that value.
The critical stress for erosion is greater than or equal to the critical stress for deposition, such
that an intermediate range of bottom shear stresses can exist for which neither deposition or
erosion can occur.
Traditionally the rate of deposition of cohesive sediment from a suspension in flowing water
has been modelled using the near-bed SPM concentration (Cb), median settling velocity
Ws50, the bed shear stress exerted by the flowing water τb and a critical bed shear stress for
deposition τd (Whitehouse et al., 2000). τd is defined as the bed shear stress above which
there is no deposition of suspended sediment. Lau and Krishnappan (1991) state that
classically floc deposition can be identified in terms of a depositional shear stress τd,
whereby this shear stress provides a threshold indicating that when the ambient shear stress
falls below this stress level (i.e. τd), the flow is unable to support the matter in suspension
and it is deposited.
In reality the whole sediment transport cycle in an estuary is particularly complicated,
because it is not necessarily closed, and processes are interdependent. For instance, settling
does not always lead to deposition, i.e. when entrainment dominates, and the sediment then
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 101

remains in suspension. Sediment tends to respond behind the hydrodynamics of the

ambient flow (Dyer, 1995). This lag is created by tidal asymmetry and a phase difference
between the SPM concentration and flow velocity; this can produce a residual flux of
sediment. For mud deposition, settling lag effects are the most relevant. On the decreasing
tide, mud flocs will start to settle once the turbulence in the flow is incapable of maintaining
them in suspension. As the flocs settle, they are transported along on the waning current
flow, so that they eventually reach the estuary bed some distance up or downstream
(depending upon the point in the tidal cycle) from the point at which settling was initiated.
This effect is settling lag, and a qualitative model outlining these effects was developed by
Postma (1961). A settling lag will sort out the flocs according to their threshold characteristics
and settling velocity (Dyer, 1995).
Most previous research indicated that a paradigm of cohesive sediment transport research
in that deposition (Dep) and erosion are mutually exclusive (e.g. Ariathurai and Krone,
1976; Officer, 1981; Dyer, 1986; Mehta, 1986, 1988; Partheniades, 1986, 1993; Sheng, 1986;
Odd, 1988; Mehta et al., 1989; Uncles and Stephens, 1989). Sanford and Halka (1993)
analysed a series of field measurements under tidal conditions in Chesapeake Bay. They
observed that the suspended sediment concentration started to decrease when the flow
velocity started to decrease. This behaviour could not be simulated by Krone’s (1962)
depositional formula, when used in conjunction with an erosion formula. Krone’s (1962)
formula predicted that the SPM concentration could not decrease before the ambient flow
velocity, and thus the bed shear stress, fell below its τd (τb < τd). However, Sanford and
Halka (1993) were able to model the observed concentration pattern only when they applied
a continuous depositional formula. This is for the case where Dep = Ws . Cb. Sanford and
Halka’s (1993) research concluded that the paradigm of mutually exclusive deposition and
erosion of cohesive sediment, is not valid for real estuarine scenarios, but is valid under
laboratory conditions.
Winterwerp (2007) suggested that four elements comprise the deposition of cohesive
sediments, which are: i) simultaneous erosion and deposition, ii) erosion rate, iii) bed shear
stress, and iv) flocculation. Using this four-point framework, Winterwerp (2007) re-analysed
Krone’s (1962) original flume results and advocates that a critical shear stress for deposition
does not exist. Instead this τd stress represents a critical shear stress for erosion of freshly
deposited cohesive sediment, i.e. resuspension. Winterwerp’s (2007) concludes that the use
of Krone’s deposition formula and Partheniades erosion formula for the modelling of the
water-bed exchange processes (e.g. Ariathuria and Arulanandan, 1978), does not correctly
represent the physics. Thus Winterwerp recommended that in order to model the
sedimentation flux for applications at low mud SPM concentrations, only the depositional
flux itself is required: Dep = Ws . Cb.
This approach concurs with the findings of Sanford and Halka (1993). For higher
concentration suspensions, the flocculation process becomes more important. Similarly
sediment-turbulence interaction can become significant through the formation of CBS or
fluid mud, which can affect the bed shear stress through turbulence damping and drag
reduction. However, both Le Hir et al. (2001) and Winterwerp (2002) indicate that the
sedimentation flux is still correctly described by Dep = Ws . Cb, even at higher
concentrations. The implication of Winterwerp’s approach to deposition was reported by
Spearman and Manning (2008).
In contrast, Maa et al. (2008) maintain that both τb (a hydrodynamic parameter) and τd (a
sediment parameter) are the main controlling parameters for determining cohesive sediment
deposition. Therefore further research is required in this area.
102 Sediment Transport

5. Examples of the application of different floc depositional models

Computer simulation models are commonly the chosen tools with which estuarine
management groups attempt to predict sediment transport rates for tasks such as routine
maintenance dredging, through to estimating the potential impacts new port related
construction would have on an existing hydrodynamical regime. In order for these
numerical models to provide sufficiently meaningful results, they require a good scientific
understanding of the phenomena under consideration, and these processes need to be
adequately described (i.e. parameterised) by the model coding.
Of particular importance, a quantitative understanding of the dynamics of the vertical
structure of cohesive sediments in suspensions is essential for an accurate estuarine
sedimentation model (Kirby, 1986; van Leussen, 1991). This requires an understanding of
the physical processes related to the entrainment, advection and deposition of muddy
sediments. One physical process which has caused particular difficulty is the modelling and
mathematical description of the vertical mass settling flux of sediment, which becomes the
depositional flux near to slack water. The MSF is the product of the concentration and the
settling velocity. Manning and Bass (2006) have found that mass settling fluxes can vary
over four or five orders of magnitude during a tidal cycle in meso- and macrotidal (Davies,
1964) estuaries, therefore a realistic representation of flux variations is crucial to an accurate
depositional model.

Fig. 9. Conceptual diagram showing the relationship between floc modal diameter,
suspended sediment concentration and shear stress (Dyer, 1989).
The specification of the flocculation term within numerical models depends upon the
sophistication of the model. Dyer (1989) proposed a conceptual relationship between D
(Ws), SPM and τ (Fig. 9), but until recently was largely unproven. Therefore the simplest
parameterisation is a settling velocity value which remains constant in both time and space.
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 103

Constant Ws of 0.5-1 mm s-1 have historically been used to represent mud settling, although
these are now known to significantly under-estimates of macrofloc fall rates. Peterson et al.
(2002) in contrast employed a constant Ws of 5 mm s-1 for the Tamar Estuary (UK), which
tended to over-predict depositional rates. These fixed settling values are typically selected
on an arbitrary basis and adjusted by model calibration. The next step has been to use
gravimetric data provided by field settling tube experiments to relate flocculation to SPM
concentration. Empirical results have shown a general exponential relationship between
either the mean or median floc settling velocity (Ws50) and SPM for concentrations ranging
up to 10 g l-1 (Fig. 10). However, both of these parameterisation techniques do not include
the important and influential effects of turbulence (Manning, 2004a). Beyond 10 g l-1, the
settling of flocs becomes hindered and their terminal velocities progressively slow with
rising turbidity (see Fig. 11).

Fig. 10. Owen tube determined median settling velocity as a function of suspended sediment
concentration (CM) for diferent estuaries. The dotted line represents an exponent of unity
(Redrawn from Delo and Ockenden, 1992).
More recently, a number of authors have proposed simple theoretical formulae inter-
relating a number of floc characteristics which can then be calibrated by empirical study.
Such an approach has been used by van Leussen (1994), who has utilised a formula which
modifies the settling velocity in still water, by a growth factor due to turbulence and then
divided by a turbulent disruption factor. This is a qualitative simplification of the Argaman
and Kaufman (1970) model originally developed for the sanitation industry, with only a
limited number of inter-related parameters, and hence does not provide a complete
description of floc characteristics within a particular turbulent environment. Even so,
Malcherek (1995) applied van Leussen’s (1994) heuristic approach to the Wesser Estuary in
Germany (Malcherek et al., 1996) with some degrees of success.
104 Sediment Transport

Fig. 11. Median settling velocity of Severn Estuary mud as a function of SPM concentration.
The Owen tube data is from Odd and Roger (1986). The solid line represents the hindered
settling effect based on the the SandCalc sediment transport computational software
algorithm (Redrawn from from Soulsby, 2000).
A number of authors have attempted to observe how the floc diameter changes in turbulent
environments. For example, Lick et al (1993) derived an empirical relationship based on
laboratory measurements using a flocculator. They found the floc diameter varied as a
function of the product of the SPM concentration and a turbulence parameter. However, this
type of formulation says very little about the important floc settling or dry mass properties.
An approach which has recently gained much interest by mathematicians, is the fractal
representation of flocs (e.g. Chen and Eisma, 1995; Winterwerp, 1999). Population balance
approaches to flocculation modelling can also require floc fractal information (e.g. Maggi,
2005; Mietta et al., 2008; Verney et al., 2010). Fractal theory is dependent on the successive
aggregation of self-similar flocs producing a structure that is independent of the scale
considered. This is similar to Krone’s (1963) order of aggregation. Winterwerp (1998)
obtained a relationship, based on research by Kranenburg (1994), relating floc settling to the:
floc size, primary particle diameter and the fractal dimension (nf). Fractal dimensions of 1.4
are representative of fragile aggregates, whilst values of 2.5 indicate strongly bonded
estuarine flocs. However, in order to make a fractal based model solvable analytically within
a numerical simulation, a mean nf of 2 is commonly assumed and this ignores important floc
density variations. A less complex version of Winterwerp’s (1998) original fractal flocculation
model since been developed by Winterwerp et al. (2006) and has been incorporated into a
Delft 3-D model to examine sediment transport in the Lower Scheldt Estuary.
Most floc settling velocity parameterisations do not include a component which represents
floc density and hence floc mass flux variations. Also most floc parameterisations produce a
single mean fall rate in time and space. However, a conclusion drawn from an
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 105

Intercomparison Experiment of various floc measuring devices conducted in the Elbe

estuary (Dyer et al., 1996), was that a single mean or median settling velocity did not
adequately represent an entire floc spectrum, especially in considerations of a flux to the
bed. Dyer et al. (1996) recommended that the best approach for accurately representing the
settling characteristics of a floc population was to split a floc distribution into two or more
components, each with their own mean settling velocity. Both Eisma (1986) and Manning
(2001) suggest a more realistic and accurate generalisation of floc patterns can be derived
from the larger macrofloc and smaller microfloc sized fractions.
Significant advances into the modelling of flocculated cohesive sediment were made during
the recent Defra funded EstProc (Estuary Processes Research) project (Estuary Process
Consortium, 2005), where Manning (2004b; 2008) developed a series of algorithms.
Manning’s algorithms for settling velocity is based entirely on empirical observations made
in situ using un-intrusive floc data collected with the INSSEV instrument (Fennessy et al.,
1994; Manning and Dyer, 2002b) together with turbulence data, both acquired from a wide
range of estuarine conditions. The Manning settling model includes aspects of floc mass
representation and dual settling velocities, both of which vary in response to shear stress (τ)
and SPM concentration changes.
The Manning algorithms were derived using a parametric multiple regression statistical
analysis of key parameters which were generated from the raw spectral floc data (Manning,
2004b; 2008). The algorithms are based on the concept of macrofloc settling (ws,macro) and the
settling of the smaller microfloc size fraction (ws,micro), and the ratio of macrofloc to microfloc
mass present in each floc population termed the SPMratio (Manning, 2004c). The algorithms
are illustrated in Fig. 12. The two fractions were demarcated at 160 μm (Manning, 2001). The
representation of floc population settling characteristics by dividing distributions into bi-
modal fraction, each with their own mean settling velocity, as advised by Dyer et al. (1996).
Since the development of the MFSV, Baugh and Manning (2007) have subsequently
implemented the Manning algorithms into a Telemac 3-D numerical model of the Thames
Estuary, and the parameterisation is now being used routinely for projects in the Coasts and
Estuaries Group at HR Wallingford. Their findings of the 1-D case studies (see Figs 13 and
14.) found the MFSV model could reproduce 93% of the total mass settling flux observed
over a spring tidal cycle. This increased to a near-perfect match within the turbidity
maximum zone. A constant Ws of 0.5 mm s-1 only estimated 15% of the flux within the
turbidity maximum zone (TMZ), whereas a fixed 5 mm s-1 settling rate over-predicted the
TMZ mass flux by 47%. Both a power law Ws – SPM representation and van Leussen
method did not fare much better, typically estimating less than half the observed flux
during the various tidal and sub-tidal cycle periods. When the Manning settling flux model
was applied to a highly saturated benthic suspension layer with SPM concentrations
approaching 6 g l-1, it calculated 96% of the observed flux. In contrast, the van Leussen
approach only predicted a third of the total observed flux within a concentrated benthic
suspension layer.
During 3-D model testing, Baugh and Manning (2007) reported the use of a constant settling
velocity did not result in the representation of any of the observed structure of suspended
concentrations (Fig. 15). The use of a linear settling velocity was a great improvement, firstly
in that it introduced an element of vertical variation in the predicted suspended
concentration. Secondly, the linear formulation also resulted in higher concentrations
occurring on the inside of the river bend during the ebb tide and on the outside of the bend
on the flood tide as observed. The use of the Manning algorithms further improved the
106 Sediment Transport

a)
4-8 g/l 2-4 g/l 0.5-2 g/l 50-500 m g/l under 50 m g/l

6
8 g/l
5
Ws MACRO EM (mm s )
-1

4
4 g/l
3
2 g/l

2
500 m g/l
1
50 m g/l

0
0.01 0.1 1 10
Turbulent Shear Stress (N m -2 )

b)
1 .6
4 -8 g /l 2 -4 g /l 0 .5 -2 g /l 5 0 -5 0 0 m g /l u n d e r 5 0 m g /l
1 .4

1 .2
Ws micro EM (mm s )
-1

0 .8

0 .6

0 .4

0 .2

0
0.01 0.1 1 10
-2
T u rb u le n t S h e a r S tre s s (N m )

100
4 -8 g /l 2 - 4 g /l 0 .5 - 2 g /l 5 0 - 5 0 0 m g /l u n d e r 5 0 m g /l

c)
10
SPMRATIO EM

0 .1
10 100 1000 10000
S P M c o n c e n t r a tio n (m g l -1 )

Fig. 12. Representative plots of the statistically generated regression curves, together with the
experimental data points, illustrating the three contributing components for the empirical
flocculation model: a) Wsmacro at various constant SPM values plotted against τ; b) Wsmicro
plotted against τ; and c) SPMratio plotted against SPM (from Manning and Dyer, 2007).
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 107

representation of the observed distribution by increasing the level of vertical variation in

suspended concentration. The Manning algorithm also introduced an area of higher
concentration on the inside of the bend during the flood tide, as was observed. Similarly,
Spearman (2004) reported significant improvements in a 3-D numerical mud transport
simulation on tidal flats when Manning’s settling model was included. Soulsby and
Manning (see Soulsby et al., 2010 in prep.) have since derived a more physics-based
flocculation model. This model is based on the key mass settling flux flocculation
characteristics exhibited by the original Manning algorithms, but intends to provide a more
generic, floc modelling solution, through a reduction in the number of coefficients used
during calibration.

100000
A.
Mass Settling Flux (mg.m -2 s -1 )

10000

1000

100

10
08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00
Time (hours)
5
B. 4.5
Model W s MACRO
Model W s micro 10
Model SPM ratio
4
MACROFLOC to microfloc SPM ratio

3.5 5
Ws (mm/s)

2.5
0
2

1.5
-5
1

0.5

0 -10
08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00
Time (hours)

Fig. 13. A) Observed mass settling flux time series, B) Manning model component algorithm
outputs for the tidal cycle (from Baugh and Manning, 2007).
108 Sediment Transport

A. 6
Observed (Ws MACRO) Observed (Ws micro) Manning (Ws MACRO) Manning (Ws micro)
Ws=0.5 mm/s Ws=5 mm/s Power law (Ws ) van Leussen (Ws)

4
Ws (mm s -1 )

0
8:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00
Time (hours)

B.
100000
Observed (MSF) Manning (MSF) MSF (Ws=0.5 mm/s)
MSF (Ws=5 mm/s) Power law (MSF) van Leussen (MSF)

10000
Mass Settling Flux (mg.m s )
-1
-2

1000

100

10
8:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00
Time (hours)

Fig. 14. Tidal cycle time series comparison of observed and predicted values of: A) settling
velocity, B) mass settling flux (from Baugh and Manning, 2007).
Cohesive Sediment Flocculation and the Application to Settling Flux Modelling 109

Fig. 15. Comparison of observed sediment concentrations across the river section (top) and
predicted sediment concentrations using different assumptions about the settling velocity
(from Baugh and Manning, 2007).

6. Acknowledgements
The preparation of this chapter was funded by the HR Wallingford Company Research
project DDY0409.

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 6

Determination of Longshore Sediment

Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change
H. Anıl Arı Güner, Yalçın Yüksel and Esin Özkan Çevik
Yıldız Technical University
Turkey

1. Introduction
1.1 Longshore sediment transport
Littoral transport is the movement of sedimentary material in the littoral zone, that is, the
zone close to the shoreline. Littoral transport is classified as cross-shore transport or as
alongshore transport. Littoral transport results from the interaction of winds, waves,
currents, tides, sediments and other phenomena in the littoral zone. Transport can be
described by the product of instantaneous concentration and the instantaneous velocity.
Generally the sediment transport through a plane of unit width and height equal to the
water depth is denoted by,

h+η t ′
1
qs =
t′ ∫ ∫ c(z,t)u(z,t)dt dz (1)
0 0

where qs is the sediment transport rate (m3/ms), t′ is the integration period (s), h is the local
water depth (m), η is the instantaneous water surface elevation (m), c(z,t) is the
instantaneous concentration of material, u(z,t) is the instantaneous velocity component
(m/s), z is the elevation above the bed level (m), t is the time (s). When waves approach a
shoreline at an angle, alongshore sediment transport (also often called littoral transport in
some literatures) takes places. Equation (1) for the alongshore sediment transport can
therefore be reduced to a much more convenient equation;

h+η
1
qs =
t′ ∫ u(z) c(z) dz (2)
0

where the velocity, u, is taken equal to the alongshore velocity, V. This velocity is practically
independent of time, because the waves, causing the time dependent velocity component,
are assumed to act almost perpendicularly to the coast and thus to the alongshore velocity
direction. Because the velocity u(z,t) is almost independent of time [ u(z, t) → u(z)] the time
averaged concentration c(z) can be used instead of the instantaneous concentration [ c(z, t)] .
Equation (2) for longshore sediment transport is similar to the sediment transport formulas
used for rivers. Principally both types of transport formulas are same, so it is possible to use
these transport formulas also for a current alone situation. The methods used for calculating
118 Sediment Transport

the velocity and the concentration, however, are different in each case. The velocity depends
on the generating forces and on the bottom shear stress. The bottom shear stress is
influenced by the wave action. The sediment concentration along the coast is much higher
than in a river because wave action stirs up a lot of material from the bottom and the current
transports it (van der Velden, 1989). Alongshore transport has an average net direction
parallel to the shoreline. Sediment, moved by alongshore transport, will generally not return
to the same area.
When waves break in the surf zone they release momentum, giving rise to a “radiation
stress”. The cross-shore component of the radiation stress forces water onshore and causes a
set-up of the water level, which rise in the onshore direction above the still water level. The
water surface slope that produces balances the cross-shore gradient of the shore-normal
component of the radiation stress. For waves incident obliquely on the shoreline is also an
alongshore component of the radiation stress, whose gradient gives rise to a “longshore
current” within (and just outside) the surf zone which is balanced by friction with bed. This
in turn drives sediment longshore as a longshore sediment transport.
There are several expressions to calculate the potential velocity of longshore current (current
for an infinitely long, strait beach). One commonly used expression is based on Longuet-
Higgins (1970).

VL = 20.7m gH b sin2α b (3)

where VL is the longshore current velocity, m is the beach slope, Hb is the breaking wave
height, α b is the wave breaking angle.
Sediment transport due to the various incident waves from the one end of a beach can then
be added up to yield a sediment transport rate to the other end (qt(+)). Similarly the sediment
transport rate can be moved to opposite side (qt(-)). The sum of these two is called the gross
sediment transport rate and the difference is the net sediment transport rate. This net rate
has a direction and the terms updrift and down drift are relative to the direction of the net
sediment transport (Kamphuis, 2010). This transport process will drive the form of the
beaches.
In the past, many researchers have attempted to determine the longshore transport rate.
Both u(z) and c(z) depend on various parameters (wave characteristics, H0 and T, breaker
index, γ, sediment characteristics, d50, angle of wave incidence, θ0, slope of beach profile, m,
bed roughness, ks). The difference between the various solutions is the way in which they
take into account the mentioned parameters above. Furthermore the transport formulas are
defined differently. Since most coastal sediments are sandy, formulas have generally been
developed for sandy beaches. Some longshore sediment transport formulas are discussed in
the present chapter which are mostly used longshore sediment transport calculation.

1.2 Longshore sediment transport formulas

Bijker formula (1971)
Bijker formula can calculate sediment transport and the transport distribution through the
surf zone. Bijker (1971) developed a formula to calculate the sediment transport as a
function of a given wave field and a given alongshore current irrespective of its origin
(wave-induced current or tidal current). Bijker formula is based on that transport equals
velocity times concentration. The Bijker transport formula is built up of two components,
namely, a bed load transport component and a suspended load transport component. The
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 119

bed load transport formula was adopted from the Kalinske-Frijlink formula (for bed load
transport under river conditions). Bijker divided the Kalinske-Frijlink formula into a stirring
parameter and a transport parameter. He introduced the influence of the waves via a
modification of the bottom shear stress, τc, in the stirring parameter into τcw. The remaining
part, the transport parameter was adapted simply by neglecting the ripple factor, μ. The
bottom transport formula was written as;

5d50V g ⎡ −0.27 Δd50 ρ g ⎤

qb = exp ⎢ ⎥ (4)
C ⎣⎢ μτ cw ⎦⎥

where qb is the bed load transport (m3/sm), d50 is the particle diameter, V is the mean
current velocity, C is Chezy coefficient (=18log(12h/ks)), ks is the bottom roughness, g is the
gravitational acceleration, Δ is the relative apparent density of bed material (=(ρs-ρ)/ρ), ρs is
the mass density of bed material, ρ is the mass density of water, μ is the ripple factor
(=(C/C90)1.5), C90 is Chezy coefficient based on d90, τcw is the bed shear stress due to waves
and current (time averaged).

ρ gV 2 ⎡ ⎛ u ⎞ ⎤
2
τ cw = 2
⎢1 + 0.5 ⎜ ξ o ⎟ ⎥ (5)
C ⎣⎢ ⎝ V ⎠ ⎥⎦

where ξ is Bijker parameter.

fw
ξ =C (6)
2g

where fw is Jonsson’s friction factor. Bijker assumed that the bottom transport occurred in a
layer with a thickness equal to the bottom roughness, ks, of the bed transport layer.

qb
Ca = (7)
6.34 ks u∗

Bijker coupled the adapted bed load transport formula to the suspended load transport
formula of Einstein. After a lot of algebra the suspended sediment can be shown to be
directly proportional to the bed load transport.

qs = 1.83 Qqb (8)

where

⎡ 33h ⎤
Q = ⎢ I 1 ln( ) + I2 ⎥ (9)
⎣ ks ⎦
I1 and I2 are known as the Einstein integrals;

1 b
⎧1 − ξ ⎫
I1 = R ∫ ⎨ ⎬ dξ (10)
A⎩
ξ ⎭
120 Sediment Transport

1 b
⎧1 − ξ ⎫
I2 = R ∫ ⎨ ⎬ ln(ξ )dξ (11)
A⎩
ξ ⎭

where ξ is the dimensionless height (z/h), A is the dimensionless roughness (ks/h),

0.216 A( b − 1)
R= (12)
(1 − A)b

w
b= (13)
κ u*
u* is the shear stress velocity (influence of waves),

τ cw
u* : u*cw= (14)
ρ
values for the Einstein integral factor can be found in Table 1. When both the bed load and
the suspended load are known, the total transport can be calculated. Additionally, since the
suspended load transport is directly related to the bed load, a very simple relationship
results may be found.

qt = qb + qs = qb (1+1.83 Q) (15)
CERC formula (USACE, 1984)
The CERC formula was developed from prototype and model measurements long before
much of the alongshore current theory had been developed. Indeed, the CERC formula was
developed soon after World War II by the Beach Erosion Board, the predecessor of the U.S.
Army Coastal Engineering Research Center. Observations in both prototype and model,
made in the decade following World War II, indicated a correlation between the longshore
transport rate and the longshore component of energy flux at the outer edge of the surf
zone.
Assuming a dense sand with ρs=1800 kg/m3 and porosity with n=0.32, the formula is
given:

q t =2.9 × 106 Hsb

5/2
(
sinα b m 3 /yr ) (16)

5/2
q t =330Hsb sinα b m 3 /hr( ) (17)

Bailard and Inman formula (1981, 1984)

Bailard and Inman (1981) derived a formula for both the suspended and bed load transport
based on the energetics approach by Bagnold (1966). Bagnold assumed that the work done
in transporting the sediment is a fixed portion of the total energy dissipated by the flow. The
formula takes into account bed load and suspended load and flow associated with waves
and current. Assuming that a weak longshore current prevails, neglecting effects of the
slope term on the total transport rate for near–normal incident waves, the local time
averaged longshore sediment transport rate is (Bailard, 1984).
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 121

Table 1. Values of Einstein integral factor Q and values of the ratio suspended load to bed
load.

⎛ δv
q = 0.5 ρ f w u03
eb
( ρs − ρ ) g tan γ ⎜⎝2
⎞
+ δ v3 ⎟ + 0.5 ρ f wu04
⎠
es
( δ u*
( ρs − ρ ) gws v 3
) (18)

where eb and es are the efficiency factors and typically used values in calculations are 0.1,
0.02 respectively, although work has indicated that these are related to the bed shear stress
and the particle diameter they are assumed to be constant, tanγ (=0.63) is a dynamic friction
factor. In Equation (18) the first term is bed load and the second term is the suspended load
component.
122 Sediment Transport

V (19)
δv =
u0

3
Ut′
u3* = (20)
u0
in which U t′ is the instantaneous velocity vector near the bed (wave and current)
Van Rijn formula (1984, 1993)
Van Rijn (1984) presented comprehensive formulas for calculating the bed load and
suspended load, and only a short description of the method is given in the following. For
the bed load he adapted the approach of Bagnold assuming that sediment particles jumping
under the influence of hydrodynamic fluid forces and gravity forces dominate the motion of
the bed load particles.
1.5
τ b′ , wc ⎡τ b′ , wc − τ b ,cr ⎤
qb = 0.25γρs d50 D*−0.3 ⎢ ⎥ (21)
ρ ⎢⎣ τ b ,cr ⎥⎦
in which D* is the dimensionless grain diameter, τ b′ , wc is the effective bed shear stress for
waves and current combined /calculated according to Van Rijn’s own method (not
discussed here).
1/3
⎡ ( s − 1) g ⎤
D* = d50 ⎢ ⎥ (22)
2
⎣ ν ⎦

Hs (23)
γ =1−
h
in which Hs is the significant wave height.
The depth integrated suspended load transport in the presence of current and waves is
defined as the integration of the product of velocity and concentration from the edge of the
bed-load layer to the water surface yields
h
1 v c
h ∫a V c a
qs = c aVh dz = c aVhF (24)

where c is the concentration distribution, V is the mean longshore current, and

V* ⎛ a ⎞ ⎛ ⎛ h − z ⎞ ⎞
Z 0.5 Z′ 1
−4 Z ′( z /h − 0.5 )
F= ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ∫ ⎜
⎜ ⎟ ln ( z / z0 ) d ( z / h ) + ∫ e ln ( z / z0 )d ( z / h ) ⎟
⎟
(25)
κV ⎝ h − a ⎠ a/h ⎝ z ⎠
⎝ 0.5 ⎠

d50 T 1.5 (26)

c a = 0.015
a D*0.3

Z′ = Z + Ψ (27)

w (28)
Z=
βκV*
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 123

0.8 0.4
⎛w⎞ ⎛ ca ⎞
Ψ = 2.5 ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟ (29)
⎝ V* ⎠ ⎝ c0 ⎠
2
⎛w⎞ (30)
β = 1 + 2⎜ ⎟
⎝V ⎠
in which Z is the suspension parameter reflecting the ratio of the downward gravity forces
and upward fluid forces acting on a suspended sediment particle in a current, ψ is an
overall correction factor representing damping and reduction in particle fall speed due to
turbulence and β is a coefficient quantifying the influence of the centrifugal forces on
suspended particles.
Van Rijn (1984) calculated the concentration distribution c in three separate layers, namely;
1. from the reference level a to the end of a near-bed mixing layer (of thickness δs)
2. from the top of the δs-layer to half the water depth (h/2)
3. from (h/2) to h
Different exponential or power functions are employed in these regions with empirical
expressions depending on the mixing characteristics in each layer.
Kamphuis formula (1991)
Kamphuis (1991) proposed a formula for the longshore sediment transport (LST) rate based
on three-dimensional, mobile-bed hydraulic beach model experiments performed with both
regular and irregular waves. After a detailed dimensional analysis he expressed the
longshore sediment transport rate as a function of wave steepness, beach slope, relative
grain size and wave angle. The scale effect for the sediment transport rate was obtained very
small. The transport formula is expressed as;

2 1.5 0.75 −0.25

Q = 2.27 H sbTp mb d50 sin 0.6 (2α b ) (kg/s) (31)

where Hsb is the significant wave height at the breaking point, Tp is the peak wave period,
mb is the beach slope near the breaking point, d50 is the median grain size, α is the breaking
wave angle. Equation (31) can be converted to

2 1.5 0.75 −0.25

Q = 6.4.10 4 H sbTp mb d50 sin 0.6 (2α b ) (m3/yr) (32)
or

2 1.5 0.75 −0.25

Q = 7.3H sbTp mb d50 sin 0.6 (2α b ) (m3/hr) (33)

The formula is more sensitive to wave period than the earlier expressions. Kamphuis (2010)
expressed that these expressions over-predicts transport for gravel beaches because they do
not include a critical shear stress (they assume that particles move even for small wave
conditions, which is true for sand but not for gravel).
Watanabe et al. formula (1986, 1992)
Watanabe et al. (1986) proposed a power-model type formula for local sediment transport
rate under combined action of waves and currents as the summation of the transport rate
due to mean currents and that due to the direct action of waves.

⎡ (τ b , wc − τ b ,cr )V ( x ) ⎤
q( x ) = ( 1 − ε v ) sAc ⎢ ⎥ (34)
⎢⎣ ρg ⎥⎦
124 Sediment Transport

in which εv is the porosity, s (=ρs/ρ-1) is the immersed specific density of the sediment, Ac is
a dimensionless coefficient, τb,wc is the maximum value of the periodical bottom friction in a
coexistent wave-current field, τb,cr is the critical shear stress for the onset of general sand
movement and V is the longshore current velocity. A value of 2.0 was adopted for the
coefficient Ac. Total immersed-weight rate of the alongshore transport can be computed by
the cross-shore integration of the Equation (34). The total volumetric transport rate Q is
calculated by the below equation:

∫ q (x) d
x0
Q= (35)
(1 − ε v )( ρs − ρ ) g

Watanabe (1992) studied the cross-shore distribution of the longshore transport rate. He
expressed that the transport rate q(x) becomes maximum between the breaking point and
the location of the maximum longshore current velocity.
Damgaard and Soulsby formula (1997)
Damgaard and Soulsby (1997) derived a physics-based formula for bed load alongshore
sediment transport. It is intended primarily for use on shingle beaches, although it is also
applicable to the bed load component on sandy beaches. The general principles are that the
mean bed shear stress are calculated from the gradient of the radiation stress in the surf
zone and the oscillatory bed shear stresses recalculated from the wave orbital velocities
using a wave friction factor corresponding to the maximum of the values for rough
turbulent flow and for sheet flow using an expression derived by Wilson (1989). The
resulting formula is:
qt=maximum of qt1 and qt2

0.19( g tan β )1/2 (sin 2α b )3/2 H b5/2 (1 − θˆcr )

qt 1 = for θˆcr < 1
12( s − 1) (36)
=0 for θˆcr ≥ 1

0.24 f (α b ) g 3/8 d50

1/4 19/8
Hb
qt 2 = for θ wr ≥ θ wsf
12(s − 1)T 1/4
(37)
0.046 f (α b ) g 2/5 H b13/5
qt 2 = for θ wr < θ wsf
12( s − 1)6/5 (π T )1/5

Subject to qt2=0 for θ max ≤ θˆcr

where

16.7θcr (s − 1)d50
θˆcr = (38)
H b (sin 2α b )(tan β )

f (α b ) = (0.95 − 0.19 cos 2α b )(sin 2α b ) (39)

0.15 H b3/4
θ wr = (40)
(s − 1) g 1/4 (Td50 )1/2
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 125

0.0040 H b6/5
θ wsf = (41)
(s − 1)7/5 g 1/5T 2/5 d50
θ w =maximum of θ wr and θ wsf
0.1H b (sin 2α b )(tan β ) (42)
θm =
(s − 1)d50

1/2
θ max = ⎡⎢(θ m + θ w sin α b ) + (θ w cos α b )2 ⎤⎥
2
(43)
⎣ ⎦
0.30
θˆcr = + 0.055 [1 − exp ( −0.02 D* )] threshold Shields parameter
1 + 1.2 D*
1/3
⎡ g ( s − 1) ⎤ (44)
D* = ⎢ 2 ⎥ d
⎣ ν ⎦
where Hb is the wave height at breaker line, T is the wave period, d50 is the median grain
diameter, tanβ is the beach slope.
Bayram et al. formula (2007)
Bayram et al. (2007) presented a new formula for calculating the longshore sediment
transport (LST) rate. This formula is derived based on an average concentration and
alongshore current velocity for the surf zone, where the current may originate from
breaking waves, wind, or tides. The new formula was validated with an extensive data set
covering a wide range of conditions. They assumed that the presence of breaking waves
cause to mobilize sediment, whereas any type of current (e.g., from breaking waves, wind
and tide) can transport the sediment. This new formula consider that the flux of wave
energy towards shore is F(=ECg) and a certain portion ε of this energy is used for the work
W, that is, W=εF. This formula is given as follows;

ε
Q lst = FV (45)
(ρs -ρ)(1-a)gw s

where V is the mean alongshore current velocity over the surf zone and a is the porosity, ε
is the transport coefficient. The transport coefficient depends on wave and sediment
conditions. They also indicated that the wave-energy flux is given by,

Fb =E bC gb cosθ b (46)

where Eb is the wave energy per unit crest width, Cgb is the group velocity and index b
denotes incipient breaking. Neglecting energy dissipation seaward of the surf zone (ie.,
bottom friction), the wave-energy flux can be estimated at any depth since F=Fb. The
transport coefficient is given by,

Hs,b
ε=(9.0+4.0 )10 -5 (47)
w s Tp

where Hs,b is the significant wave height at breaking, Tp is the peak wave period, ws is the
particle settling velocity.
126 Sediment Transport

2. Modelling of shoreline change

2.1 Introduction
Determination of the shoreline change and coastal morphology accurately in coastal zones is
a very important issue for the “Integrated Coastal Zone Management”. For the assessment
of the coastal morphology and shoreline change, the most important environmental
parameters as wind, wave, current, water level, sediment transport phenomena and its
supply should be well known. However, these parameters can not be detected accurately
and properly due to the complicated behaviour of the nature. Prediction of the beach
evolution for beach stabilization or shore protection is one of the main responsibilities in the
field of coastal engineering. Despite of the difficulty of the problem, accurate estimations
must be performed for the design and maintenance of the shore protection projects.
In the planning of projects located in the nearshore zone, prediction of beach evolution with
numerical models has proven to be a powerful technique to assist in the selection of the
most appropriate design. Models provide a framework for developing problem formulation
and solution statements, for organizing the collection and analysis of data, and, importantly,
for efficiently evaluating alternative designs and optimizing the selected design (Hanson
and Kraus, 1991).
Various modelling approaches ranging from simple one-dimensional to sophisticate three-
dimensional models for prediction and assessment of the evolution of coastal morphology
have been developed over the last decades. Recently, these models have become useful in
representing the governing physical processes in cross-shore and alongshore dimensions.
In numerical modelling of coastal processes there is a tendency to develop that attempt to
simulate the physical processes in fine detail. This results in very specialized
computationally extensive models, which are very difficult to handle. Given the complexity
of the coastal processes, which can not be represented by deterministic formula and the high
uncertainty in wave and sediment transport data (Kamphuis, 1999), numerous runs are
required for sensitivity analysis and model calibration and verification which prohibit the
practical application of such sophisticated model (Dabees, 2000).
Numerical models of beach evolution expand from simple one-dimensional models to
complicated three dimensional models. These models can be classified as:
• Beach profile change models:
Descriptive models
Equilibrium profile models
Process based models
• Analytical shoreline change models
• Numerical shoreline change models
• Numerical three dimensional beach change models:
Deterministic three dimensional models
Schematic three dimensional models (N-line)

2.2 Numerical shoreline change models

Analytical and numerical models are developed based on the equations of sediment
continuity (48) and longshore transport rate (49) which are the governing processes in the
long-term response of shoreline evolution.

dy 1 ⎧ dQ ⎫
=− ⎨ − q⎬ (48)
dt dp ⎩ dx ⎭
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 127

where y is the shoreline position, x is the longshore coordinate, t is the time, Q is the volume
rate of longshore sediment transport, q is the rate of cross-shore sediment transport or
sediment sources along the coast, dp is the profile depth which equals to the closure depth
(dc) plus the beach berm height (db).
Analytical solutions
The first one-line theory used for the determination of the shoreline change was introduced
by Pelnard-Considere (1956). The analytical one-line theory was used for planform shoreline
evolution by employing equilibrium profile. By assuming constant wave direction and a
small incident wave angle, the longshore transport rate can be calculated with Equation (49).

Q=f (Hb, α b , tan β , d50)= Q0 sin2 α e = Q0 sin2( α b - dy ) (49)

dx
where, Q0 is the amplitude of longshore transport rate, Q is the volume rate of longshore
sediment transport, αb is the wave breaking angle with respect to the X-axis and αe is the
effective breaking angle.
The effective breaking angle is defined as:

α e = αb − αs (50)
−1
α s = tan ( dy / dx ) is the angle the shoreline makes with the X-axis. Following the
assumption that αs is small such that α s = ( dy / dx ) . Equation (50) becomes:

dy (51)
α e = αb −
dx
Assuming small incident angle, Equation (49) is given by,

Q= 2 Q0 ( α b − dy ) (52)
dx
Differentiating Equation (52) to determine ∂Q / ∂x and substituting in Equation (48)
assuming that q=0, the governing equation is simplified in the form of diffusion equation for
shoreline evolution below:

dy d2 y (53)
−D 2 =0
dt dx
where;

2Q0 Q (54)
D= =
dp α b dp
Many solutions to various initial and boundary conditions for Equation (53) have been
presented (Carlslaw and Jaeger, 1959; Crank and Jaeger, 1975). Grijm (1961) derived the
analytical solution for the shoreline evolution of horizontal bed response to the sediment
discharges from a river. Le Mehaute and Soldate (1977) developed a mathematical model
which incorporates different effects of variations of sea level, wave refraction, diffraction,
rip currents, coastal structures and beach nourishment for long-term shoreline evolution.
Larson et al. (1987) surveyed 25 analytical models for simulating the evolution of a sandy
beach. A general solution using Laplace transformation techniques for beach evolution with
128 Sediment Transport

and without structures was developed. Walton (1994) derived three one-line models in
which two of them are linearised shoreline change models and the other one is non-linear
model using different approaches. Dean (2002) has extended his previous research (Dean,
1984) on analytical solutions of shoreline change applicable to beach nourishment projects.
Several solutions to the diffusion equation for shoreline evolution are presented for various
geometries, different initial and boundary conditions.
The analytical models supply simple and economic solutions for the shoreline behaviour for
various coastal problems. However analytical models with several constraints limit the
practical applications in the field. In Table 2 assumptions and limitations of the analytical
solutions are given.

Assumption Limitation
Unable to describe changes in profile shape in
1 Constant profile shape
time and space.
No cross-shore transport Unable to account for storm induced offshore
2
q=0 losses or seasonal variations.
Small breaking angle
3 Valid only for small breaking angles.
(sin 2 α b = 2 α b )
Small shoreline change angle Valid only for straight shorelines.
4
(α s = ( dy / dx ) ) Provides inaccurate results near structures.
Unable to account for changes in wave heights
alongshore due to refraction or diffraction.
Constant wave condition in
5 Exclusion of wave refraction provides
space
inaccurate predictions of shoreline change for
curved shorelines.
Valid only for one representative wave
Constant wave condition in condition.
6
time Unable to provide time dependent simulations
using actual wave climate.
Valid only for simple cases where Q is specified
at the boundary.
7 Simple boundary conditions
Unable to account for multiple coastal
structures.
Table 2. Assumptions and limitations of the analytical solution of the one-line theory
(Dabees, 2000)
Numerical solutions
In the numerical models of shoreline change, the governing equation (48) is converted to
finite difference forms (55)-(57) using a typical staggered grid representation. In Figure 1,
shoreline position (y), cross-shore supply (q) and longshore sediment transport rate (Q) are
defined for the longshore position (x). i and prime (΄) denote the cell number and variables
in the next time step, respectively.

y′i − yi ⎛ ∂y ⎞ ⎛ ∂y ⎞ ′
= λ ⎜ ⎟ + (1 − λ )⎜ ⎟ (55)
Δt ⎝ ∂t ⎠i ⎝ ∂t ⎠i
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 129

⎛ ∂y ⎞ 1 ⎛ Qi + 1 − Qi ⎞
(56)
⎜ ∂t ⎟ = − d ⎜ ∂y
− qi ⎟
⎝ ⎠i p⎝ ⎠

⎛ ∂y ⎞′ 1 ⎛ Qi′+ 1 − Qi′ ⎞
(57)
⎜ ∂t ⎟ = − d ⎜ − q′i ⎟
⎝ ⎠i p⎝ ∂y ⎠
where Δt is the time step and λ ( 0 ≤ λ ≤ 1 ) is a parameter for selected numerical schemes.
For the shoreline change models, both of the finite difference equations (explicit or implicit)
can be used depending on the selected λ . For explicit schemes, the shoreline can be directly
computed using previous information (the solution corresponding to λ = 1 ). Implicit
schemes are more complicated to program than explicit schemes. The further reading for the
implicit and explicit finite difference schemes for shoreline change modelling can be found
in Kamphuis (2010).
A considerable number of numerical one-line models have been explained in the literature
with different formulations of initial and boundary conditions for shoreline evolutions in
response to coastal structures and beach nourishments. There are a lot of numerical models
apart from “in-house” numerical models that are all based on one-line theory and all widely
known numerical modelling systems used in coastal engineering practice (for example
GENESIS (Hanson and Kraus, 1991); UNIBEST (Delft, 1993); SAND94 (Szmytkiewicz et al.,
2000); LITPACK (DHI, 2008)).

y
Groin
Distance offshore

q i-1

qi
yi-1

yi y

Shoreline
x

Cell i Distance alongshore

x

Fig. 1. Sketch of shoreline position and transport rates in finite difference form (Horikowa,
1988)

3. Case study
The site of the field study is Karaburun coastal village located near the south west coast of
the Black Sea at 41°21'05”N and 28°41'01”E, which is Northwest of Istanbul (Figure 2). It has
a WNW-ESE general orientation and an extension of approximately 4 km. The fishery
harbor of the village is at the western end of the 4 km sandy beach. The harbor operations
are effected by the sedimentation problem because of considerable rate of westward
sediment transport towards the harbor entrance, thus the water depth shallows and the
navigation to and from the harbor is prevented (Photo 1).
130 Sediment Transport

Fig. 2. Location of Karaburun coastal village

Photo 1. Karaburun Fishery Harbor and the nearby beach at east of Harbor (looking towards
south east direction) (Ari et al., 2007)

3.1 Prediction of longshore sediment transport rate

In order to determine the LST rates in this region; the long-term observations of shoreline
changes, sea bottom topography, sediment properties, wind, wave and current
measurement campaigns were performed. The LST rates are obtained from three different
methods which are:
• CERC (USACE,1984) formula
• Kamphuis (1991) formula
• Numerical model (LITPACK (DHI, 2008))
CERC (USACE,1984) and Kamphuis (1991) formulas are explained in the first part of this
chapter in detail. The LST rates obtained from these models are given in Table 2.
The numerical model used in the current work is LITPACK package which is an integrated
modelling system for LITtoral Processes and Coastline Kinetics developed by Danish
Hydraulic Institute. LITPACK is used for modelling of non-cohesive sediment transport in
waves and currents, littoral drift, coastline evolution and profile development. It is an
integration and enhancement of deterministic numerical models: STP, LITDRIFT, LITLINE,
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 131

LITREN, LITPROF. For the current study, the LITPACK package (ver. 2008, the newest
available for this study) licensed at the Hydraulic and Coastal Engineering Laboratory at
Yildiz Technical University has been used. LITPACK uses a sophisticated approach
involving wave radiation stress computations for the evaluation of longshore sediment flux.
A detailed description of the approach can be found in Fredsøe and Deigaard (1992).
LITDRIFT module was used for the estimation of LST rates of the study field. The module
includes important sediment transport mechanisms such as non-linear wave motion,
turbulent bottom boundary layer, wave breaking and sediment grading. It is an essentially
combination of a 1D wave model, a 1D hydrodynamic model and an intra-wave sediment
transport model (STP). The model shoals, refracts and breaks the input wave from the toe of
the profile to the shoreline.
The input data for the LITDRIFT module is the wave data from the wave modelling results
calibrated with the locally measured wave data, wind data, bottom profiles at different
coordinates, initial coastline and sediment characteristics. In reference to the site
measurements the median grain diameter (d50) and the sediment spreading ( σ g = d84 / d16 )
were chosen as 1.53 mm and 1.36, respectively.
According to the calculations for the research area, the gross and the net longshore sediment
transport rates were obtained as shown in Table 2.

Qnet (m3/year) Qgross (m3/year)

CERC (USACE, 1984) 443292 772350
Kamphuis (1991) 76448 186510
Numerical Model (LITDRIFT) 85210 152600
Table 2. The net and gross longshore sediment transport rates predicted by different
methods
LST rates are estimated both by modelling and field measurements. However, both of these
methods have major limitations and there is no independent argument of the accuracy of
either. The limitations and/or the defects of the sediment transport models are criticised by
several researchers. For this reason, LST rates predicted by these methods differ from each
other by various reasons as shown in Table 2.
CERC formula used to be the most frequently applied expression which yields to the new
models that include more coastal parameters nowadays. It is recommended to use CERC
formula in storm conditions where the wave heights exceed 4 m (Wang et al, 1998).
However, in Karaburun coastal region according to the wave climate studies, the average
wave height is 0.9 m. Therefore, CERC equation overestimates LST rates obtained from
Kamphuis (1991) and numerical model (LITDRIFT) by factors of 5.8 and 5.2, respectively for
the net LST and by factors of 4.1 and 5.1, respectively for the gross LST.
It is recommended to use Kamphuis (1991) formula in low-wave energy conditions with
breaker heights of less then 1 m (Wang et al., 1998). The recommended value corresponds to
the study area’s wave condition. The percentage differences with respect to CERC equation
and numerical model (LITDRIFT) are 141.2% and 10.8%, respectively for the net LST, 122.2%
and 20.0%, respectively for the gross LST.
The other method to predict the LST rate in the region is the numerical model (LITDRIFT).
The percentage differences for the net LST with respect to CERC equation and Kamphuis
(1991) formula are 135.5% and 10.8%, respectively, 134.0% and 20.0%, respectively for the
gross LST.
132 Sediment Transport

3.2 Determination of shoreline change

The direction of the longshore sediment transport was determined as towards Northwest
(towards the fishery harbor) from the field studies and measurements. Because of this
transport, there becomes a considerable sediment deposition in and nearby the Karaburun
fishery harbor.
Determination of the shoreline change evolution was performed with two methods. One of
them is “in-house” numerical model and the other one is widely known numerical
modelling system called LITLINE which is a module of LITPACK software package. Both of
the models are based on one-line theory for shoreline change modelling.
In the first model (Ari et al., 2007), the shoreline change was investigated between the years
of 1996 and 2005. Multitemporal and georeferenced IKONOS images (in 2003 and in 2005,
multispectral) and IRS1C/D images (in 1996 and in 2000) were used in this study. The
Karaburun shoreline was digitized manually by using ERDAS software for each image. The
shorelines were superimposed and the changes of them had been measured in 50m interval.
Karaburun shoreline was modeled by using 71 grid-cells, each 50 m long for the distance of
3.55 km. In the first model the shoreline was idealized as shown in Figure 3. Both updrift
and downdrift boundaries were assumed as complete barriers. The fishery harbor is located
at downdrift boundary and there is a headland at the updrift boundary.
The first simulations were carried out for the period from 1996 to 1997 using a 3-hour time
step. The initial shoreline obtained from the image in 1996 was used in the model. In order
to calculate shoreline position in 2000, each model run considered the previous computed
shoreline change for one year as an initial shore.

Fig. 3. Idealized numerical shoreline (Ari et al., 2007)

The results of the simulation of the present condition are seen in Figure 4. As shown from
the figure, erosion occurs at the updrift side and deposition occurs at the downdrift side.
The computed shoreline change was found nearly close the shoreline in 2000 from the
image. However, sand fill was made in the eroded area in 2000. So erosion was reduced
after 2000. The IKONOS images in 2003 and 2005 were agreed the result because shoreline
change reached almost its equilibrium stage (Ari et al., 2007).
The second model used in the study is LITLINE module of LITPACK software package.
LITLINE is the module that computes the changes of a shoreline over a period of time using
spatially and temporally varying longshore transport. LITLINE calculates the coastline
position based on input of the wave climate as a time series. The model is, with minor
modifications, based on an one-line theory, in which the cross-shore profile is assumed to
remain unchanged during erosion/accretion.
Determination of Longshore Sediment Transport and Modelling of Shoreline Change 133

Karaburun shoreline was modeled by using 463 grid-cells, each 10 m long for the distance of
4.63 km (1.08 km longer than the first model). In the second model no idealized boundaries
were used. The headland was used in the LITLINE module as it is. The simulation was
carried out for the period from 2004 to 2005 using a 1-hour time step.

(a) Numerical solution (for four years) versus images in 1996 and 2000

Fishery harbor location

N
Downdrift
Black Sea 1996 Satellite Image Updrift
1997 First Year Solution

2000 Fourth Year Solution

2000 Satellite Image

(b) Numerical solution in 1997 and 2000 versus images in 1996 and 2000
Fig. 4. Karaburun shoreline changes (Ari et al., 2007)
389 500

390 000

390 500

391 000

391 500

392 000

392 500

393 000

393 500

394 000

394 500
4 580 000

4 579 500

350 0 10
340 20
0 30
33

N
0 40
32
0

50
31
0

60
30
260 270 280 290

70
80

W E
90
100 110

4 579 000
250
0

12
24

0
13
0
23

S
0

0 14
22 0
0 15
21 0
160
170 180 190 200

Calculated shoreline change, July 2005

Measured shoreline , July 2005
4 578 500 Measured shoreline , September 2004

4 578 000
10 0 25 50 75 100 METERS

4 577 500
389 500

390 000

390 500

391 000

391 500

392 000

392 500

393 000

393 500

394 000

394 500

Fig. 5. Comparison of the coastline changes (measured vs. model output)

The study shows that the prediction of long term shoreline variation needs field work,
analysis, observations and reliable and continuous wind, wave and current data. If there is
134 Sediment Transport

no time history of shoreline or original shoreline measurement in any site, the remote
sensing technology helps to monitor the shoreline.
The validation of the LITLINE model was performed with the field measurements initially.
Karaburun coastline was measured with RTK-GPS between the years of 2004-2006. The
RTK-GPS measurements provide accuracy of 2-3 cm horizontally. The coastline change
between the years of 2004-2005 was simulated with LITLINE module and compared with
RTK-GPS measurements. The model output showed that the model gave very reasonable
results compared with in-situ measurement (Figure 5). Secondly, the coastline change
obtained from LITLINE module was compared with coastline extracted from satellite image.
IKONOS satellite images used in this study have radiometric solution of 11 bite and
resolution of 1 m. The compared results showed again that the simulated shoreline change
with LITLINE module is very compatible with the extracted coastline using remote sensing
technique (Figure 6).
389 500

390 000

390 500

391 000

391 500

392 000

392 500

393 000

393 500

394 000

394 500
4 580 000

4 579 500

350 0 10
340 20
0 30
33

N
0 40
32

50
31
0

60
30
260 270 280 290

70
80
W E

100 90
110
250
4 579 000

12
0
24

0
13
0
23
S

0
0 14
22 0
0 15
21 0
160
170 180 190 200

Calculated shoreline change, July 2005

Satellite image , July 2005
4 578 500 Satellite image , September 2004

4 578 000
10 0 25 50 75 100 METERS

4 577 500
389 500

390 000

390 500

391 000

391 500

392 000

392 500

393 000

393 500

394 000

394 500

Fig. 6. Comparison of the coastline changes (extracted coastline from satellite image
(IKONOS) vs. model output)

4. References
Ari, H.A., Yuksel, Y., Cevik, E.O., Guler, I., Yalciner, A.C. & Bayram, B. (2007).
Determination and control of longshore sediment transport: A case study. Ocean
Engineering, 34 (2), pp 219–233
Bagnold, R.A. (1966). An approach to the sediment transport problem from general physics,
Geological Survey Professional Papers, 422-1, Washington, USA
Bailard, J.A. (1984). A simplified model for longshore sediment transport, Proceedings of the
19th Coastal Engineering Conference, pp.1454-1470
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Bailard, J.A. & Inman, D.L., (1981). An energetic bedload model for plane sloping beach:
local transport, Journal of Geophysical Research, 86(C3), pp. 2035-2043
Bijker, E.W. (1971). Alongshore transport computations. Journal of Waterways, Harbors and
Coastal Engineering Division, ASCE, Vol. 97, ww4, pp 687-701
Bayram, A., Larson, M., Miller, H.C. & Kraus, N.C. (2001). Cross-shore distribution of
longshore sediment transport: comparison between predictive formulas and field
measurements, Coastal Engineering, 44, pp 79-99
Bayram, A., Larson, M. & Hanson, H. (2007). A new formula for the total longshore
sediment transport rate, Coastal Engineering, 54, pp 700-710
Carslaw, H. & Jaeger, J. (1959). Conduction of Heat in Solids, Clarendon Press, Oxford, UK
Crank., J. & Jaeger, J. (1975). The Mathematics of Diffusion, 2nd Edition, Clarendon Press,
Oxford, UK
Dabees, M.A. (2000) Efficient Modelling of Beach Evolution, Ph.D. Thesis, Queen's University,
Kingston, Ontario, Canada
Damgaard, J.S. & Soulsby, R.L. (1997). Alongshore bed-load transport. Proceedings of the.
25th Int. Conf. Coastal Eng., Orlando, 3, pp. 3614-3627. ASCE
Dean, R.G., (1984). Principles of Beach Nourishment. In: P.D. Komar (Editor), CRC Handbook
of Coastal Processes and Erosion. CRC Press, Boca Raton, Fla, pp. 217-232
Dean, R.G., (2002). Beach Nourishment: Theory and Practice, 118. World Scientific
Delft, (1993). UNIBEST User’s Manual. Version 4.00. Delft Hydraulics Laboratory. The
Netherlands
DHI (2008). LITPACK-An Integrated Modelling System for LITtoral Processes And Coasline
Kinetics, Short Introduction and Tutorial, DHI Water and Environment
Fredsøe, J. & Deigaard, R. (1992). Mechanics of Coastal Sediment Transport: Advanced Series on
Ocean Engineering, World Science, Singapore
Grijm, W. (1961), Theoretical Forms of Shorelines. Proceedings of 7th Coastal Engineering Conf.,
ASCE: 197-202
Hanson, H. & Kraus, N.C. (1991). Genesis: Generelized Model for Simulating Shoreline Change,
CERC Report 89-19, Reprint, U. S. Corps of Eng., Vicksburg
Horikowa, K., (1988). Nearshore Dynamics and Coastal Processes: Theory, Measurement, and
Predictive Models. University of Tokyo Press, Japan
Kamphuis, J.W. (1991). Alongshore sediment transport of sand, Journal of Waterway, Port,
Coastal and Ocean Engineering, ASCE, Vol. 117 No.6, pp. 624-641
Kamphuis, J.W. (1999). Marketing Uncertainty, Proceedings of 5th Int. Conf. On Coastal and
Port Eng. In Developing Countries, Capetown
Kamphuis, J. W. (2010). Introduction to Coastal Engineering and Management, 2nd Edition, World
Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd.,ISBN-13 978-981-283-484-3, Singapore
Larson, M., Hanson, H. & Kraus, N.C. (1987), Analytical Solutions of the One-Line Model of
Shoreline Change, CERC Report 87-15, US Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg
Le Mehaute, B. & Soldate, M. (1977). Mathematical Modelling of Shoreline Evolution, Misc. Rep.
77-10, US Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg
Longuet-Higgins, M.S., (1970). Longshore Currents Generated by Obliquely Incident Sea
Waves, Journal of Geophysics Res., Vol.75, pp. 6778-6801
Pelnard-Considere, R. (1956). Essai de Theorie de l’Evolition des Formes de Rivage en Plages
de Sable et de Galets, 4-ieme Journees de l’Hydraulique, Les engeries de la mer,
Question III, Rapport No. 1
136 Sediment Transport

Soulsby, R. (1997). Dynamics of Marine Sands, Thomas Telford, London

Szmytkiewicz, M., Biegowski, J., Kaczmarek, L.M., Okrój, T., Ostrowski, R., Pruszak, Z.,
Rózynsky, G. & Skaja, M. (2000). Coastline Changes Nearby Harbour Structures:
Comparative Analysis Of One-Line Models Versus Field Data, Coastal Engineering,
Vol. 40., 199-139
USACE, (1984). Shore Protection Manual. Department of the Army, U.S. Corps of Engineers,
Washington, DC 20314
Van der Velden, E.T.J.M. (1989). Coastal Engineering. vol.2, Delft TU
Van Rijn, L.C. (1984). Sediment transport: PartI: Bed load transport; Part II: Suspended load
transport; Part III: Bed forms and alluvial roughness, Journal of Hydraulic Division,
Vol.110, No.10, pp. 1431-1456; Vol.110, No.11, pp.1613-1641, Vol.110, No 12,
pp.1733-1754
Van Rijn, L.C. (1993). Principles of sediment transport in rivers, estuaries and coastal seas, Aqua
Publication, The Netherlands, Amsterdam
Walton, T.L., (1994). Shoreline Solution for Tapered Beach Fill. Journal of Waterway Port and
Ocean Engineering, ASCE, 120(6): 651-655
Wang, P., Kraus, N.C. & Davis, R.A., Jr. (1998). Total Rate of Longshore Sediment Transport
in the Surf Zone: Field Measurements and Empirical Predictions, Journal of Coastal
Research, 14(1), 269-283
Watanabe, A, Maruyama, T., Shimizu, T. & Sakakiyama, T. (1986). Numerical prediction
model of three-dimensional beach deformation around a structure, Coastal
Engineering in Japan, JSCE, Vol.29, pp. 179-194
Watanabe, A. (1992). Total rate and distribution of longshore sand transport, Proceeding of the
23th Coastal Engineering Conference, pp.2528-2541
Wilson, K.C. (1989). Friction of wave induced sheet flow. Coastal Engineering, 12, 371-379
 7

Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of

Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes
Xiaobo Chao and Yafei Jia
The University of Mississippi
USA

1. Introduction
Sediment has been identified as one of the leading nonpoint-source pollutants. Most
sediments are transported into surface water bodies from agricultural lands and watersheds
through runoff, and greatly affect the surface water quality. Sediment particles will change
channel topography and play an important role in affecting water quality physically or
chemically by the pollutants, nutrients and pesticides they carried. Shallow lakes in the
Southern U.S. are often surrounded by agriculture lands. The suspended sediments in these
shallow lakes are normally very fine, and they can be classified as cohesive sediments.
The basic processes involved in cohesive sediment transport, such as flocculation,
deposition, erosion, consolidation, etc., have been studied by many scientists. Burban et al.
(1990) presented a formula to calculate the settling velocity of flocs in fresh water based on
laboratory experiments. Thorn (1981), Ziegler and Nisbet (1995), Li and Mehta (1998)
established several empirical formulas for settling velocity of flocs by considering the effects
of sediment size, sediment concentration, salinity, turbulence intensity, and bed shear stress.
Krone (1962) and Mehta and Partheniades (1975) investigated deposition of cohesive
sediment and proposed formulas to estimate deposition rates. Partheniades (1965) proposed
a formula to calculate the erosion rate of cohesive sediment. Hamm and Migniot (1994)
studied the consolidation of cohesive bed material using an approach of three stage process.
In recent decades, some researchers have studied the cohesive sediment transport in rivers,
lakes, and coastal waters using numerical models. Willis and Krishnappan (2004) reviewed
a number of numerical models and gave an overview of the knowledge base required for
modeling cohesive sediment transport in river flow. Nicholson and O’Connor (1986)
developed a 3D cohesive sediment transport model using a splitting method in conjunction
with a characteristics technique and a mixed explicit-implicit finite difference approach.
Ziegler and Nisbet (1995), Bailey and Hamilton (1997), and Wu and Wang (2004) developed
several two-dimensional (2D) depth-averaged models to simulate cohesive sediment
transport. Liu (2007) developed a vertical (laterally integrated) two-dimensional model to
simulate the cohesive sediment transport in Danshuei River estuary by considering the
effects of reservoir construction upstream of the river. Normant (2000), Jin and Ji (2004)
proposed 3D layer models to simulate the cohesive sediment transport in estuaries and
lakes, respectively.
Sediment erosion, transport and suspension often result from turbulent flows. In inland
lakes, however, the water flow is often dominated by wind, and the wave induced by wind
138 Sediment Transport

generates the most dynamic conditions along shorelines. Jin and Sun (2007) studied the flow
circulation, wave dynamics and their impacts on sediment resuspension and vertical mixing
in Lake Okeechobee based on field measurements. Their results show that wave action is the
dominant factor in sediment re-suspension in that lake. Cozar et al. (2005) presented
empirical correlations between total turbidity and wind speed based on the field
observations. They also obtained an empirical formula to calculate the suspended sediment
concentration using wind speed and water depth. Some researchers have shown that
sediment resuspension in shallow lakes is primarily a result of wave action (Luettich et al
1990; Hawley and Lesht 1992). Field observations in Deep Hollow Lake, a shallow oxbow
lake in Mississippi showed that during the period from October to December of 1999, the
concentration of suspended sediment in the lake varied from 20 to 90 mg/l, even though
there was no runoff discharged into the lake during this time (Rebich and Knight 2001). It
was apparent that these levels of suspended sediment concentration reflected the influence
of wind-induced currents and waves.
This paper presents a 3D model developed based on the mass transport equation for
simulating the concentration distribution of cohesive sediment in shallow lakes. It was
assumed that low concentration of sediment does not affect the motion of flow, therefore,
the decoupled approach was used to calculate the flow field and sediment transport
separately. Flow information such as velocity fields, free surface elevations, and eddy
viscosity parameters were obtained from a three dimensional hydrodynamic model
CCHE3D (Jia et al 2001), and processes of flocculation, deposition, erosion, etc., were
considered in the cohesive sediment transport simulation. Because the wind-driven
hydrodynamics are considered as important features for sediment transport and re-
suspension in lakes, in this flow model, the bottom shear stresses induced by currents and
waves were calculated.
This model was first verified by a simple mathematic solution consisting of the movement of
a non-conservative tracer in a prismatic channel with uniform flow, and the numerical
results agreed well with the analytical solutions. Then it was applied to Deep Hollow Lake,
a shallow oxbow lake in Mississippi. Simulated sediment concentrations were compared
with available field observations. The trend obtained from the numerical model was
generally in good agreement with the observations. It was found that without considering
the effect of wind-induced wave, a numerical model can never capture the observed
suspended sediment distribution.
This paper presents detailed technical information on cohesive sediment transport in lakes.
The background and objectives of this paper are introduced in Section 1. Section 2 describes
the general cohesive sediment transport processes in a lake, including flocculation,
deposition, erosion, consolidation, etc. Section 3 describes the numerical model for
simulating the cohesive sediment transport. Section 4 describes the effect of wind-driven
flow and wind-induced wave on sediment transport. Section 5 presents two cases for model
verifications. Section 6 provides an application case of the model to a shallow lake in
Mississippi. The discussions and conclusions are described in Section 7 and Section 8,
respectively.

2. General cohesive sediment transport processes in a lake

The general processes governing cohesive sediment transport in lakes are flocculation,
settling, deposition, erosion, consolidation, etc.
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 139

2.1 Flocculation
Due to the action of electrostatical forces, the individual fine sediment particles may move
toward each other and form the so called flocs/aggregates when they collide. This process is
called flocculation, and it is affected by sediment size, sediment concentration, turbulence
intensity, temperature, organic matters, etc. (Thorn, 1981; Mehta, 1986; McConnachie, 1991).
Flocculation becomes weaker when sediment size increases. In general, high sediment
concentration would enhance flocculation as the collision is intensified. The turbulence of
flow also affects flocculation. In the range of low shear stress, turbulence increases the
chance of collision among sediment particles so that flocculation increases. When the shear
stress exceeds the critical level, flocculation may reduce as turbulence increases.
Temperature has a significant influence on flocculation. High temperature intensifies
flocculation as the thermal motions of ions increase.

2.2 Settling velocity

In natural lakes, the settling velocity of cohesive sediment depends on the floc size,
concentration of particles, organic content of the sediment, etc. The flocculation process is
dynamic and complex. The median floc diameter can be estimated from the following
experiment-based equation (Lick and Lick 1988; Gailani et al 1991):

0.5
⎛α ⎞
dm = ⎜ 0 ⎟ (1)
⎝ CG ⎠
where dm = median floc diameter (cm); G = fluid shear stress(dyne/cm2); C = concentration
of sediment (g/cm3); and α0 = experimentally determined constant. For fine-grained
cohesive sediments in freshwater, α 0 = 10 −8 gm2 / cm3 / s 2 .
Based on laboratory experiments on flocculated, cohesive sediments in freshwater, Burban
et al. (1990) proposed a formula to calculate the settling velocity:

ws = admb (2)

where a = 9.6 × 10 −4 (CG )−0.85 and b = − ⎡⎣0.8 + 0.5log(CG − 7.5 × 10 −6 )⎤⎦

Eqs (1) and (2) address the effects of sediment concentration and flow shear stress on
flocculation, and they can be used for lake simulation.

2.3 Deposition and erosion of cohesive sediment

When the bottom shear stress is less than the critical shear stress for deposition, sediment
can settle down on the bed. Based on Krone (1962) and Mehta and Partheniades (1975), the
deposition rate (Db) can be calculated by:

⎧ 0 τ b > τ cd
⎪
Db = ⎨ ⎛ τb ⎞ (3)
⎪ wsC ⎜ 1 − τ ⎟ τ b ≤ τ cd
⎩ ⎝ cd ⎠

where τb = bed shear stress (N/m2); τcd = critical shear stress for deposition (N/m2).
140 Sediment Transport

When the bottom shear stress is greater than the critical shear stress for erosion, cohesive
sediment can be eroded. There are three erosion modes proposed by Mehta (1986). The first
erosion mode is the flocs or aggregates that are eroded from bed in particles. The second
mode is the mass erosion due to the failure of sediment bed along a plane below the bed
surface, and the sediment above the plane is eroded in layers. The third mode is the
entrainment of sediment when a fluid mud is formed at the water-sediment interface.
Erosion rate is generally expressed by Partheniades (1965)

⎧ 0 τ b < τ ce
⎪ (4)
Eb = ⎨ ⎛ τ b ⎞
⎪ M ⎜ τ − 1 ⎟ τ b ≥ τ ce
⎩ ⎝ ce ⎠
where τce = critical shear stress for erosion (N/m2); M = erodibility coefficient related to the
sediment properties, the reported values are in the range of 0.00001 to 0.0004 kg/m2/s (van
Rijn 1989).
Gailani et al.(1991) and Ziegler and Nisbet (1995) studied the cohesive sediment transport in
lakes and reservoirs, and found that the erosion rate is a power function of the
dimensionless excessive shear stress:
n
a ⎛τ −τ ⎞ (5)
Eb = m0 ⎜ b ce ⎟
td ⎝ τ ce ⎠
where a0= site-specific coefficient; td = time after deposition (day); m and n = coefficients, m
is about 2, and n is 2~3.

2.4 Consolidation of cohesive sediment

Consolidation is an important process in cohesive sediment transport. It is a compaction
process of deposited material under the influence of gravity and water pressure with
simultaneous expulsion of pore water and a gain in strength of bed material. Consolidation
is generally classified in three stages. The first stage is the settlement of flocs to form a fluid
mud, which occurs within several hours of deposition. The second stage is the escaping of
pore water, which happens in one or two days. The third stage is the gelling of clay, which
may take years to reach the final state.
The degree of consolidation is affected by the sediment size, the mineralogical composition,
the thickness of deposit layer, etc. It was observed that the dry bed density varies along the
depth below the bed surface, and the relationship between the bed density and
consolidation time can be estimated as (Hayter, 1983):

ρd
= 1 − ae − ptdc /t dc∞ (6)
ρ d∞

where ρ d = mean dry bed density; ρ d∞ = final dry bed density; tdc= consolidation time; tdc∞ =
final consolidation time; parameters a and p are taken as 0.845 and 6.576, respectively.
Lane and Koelzer (1953) proposed a formula to estimate the dry bed density in
consolidation processes:

ρ d = ρ d 0 + β log tdc (7)

Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 141

where ρd = dry bed density; ρd0= dry bed density after one year of consolidation; tdc=
consolidation time; and β = coefficient.
Consolidation affects the bed shear strength and also the erosion rate. The critical shear
stress for erosion τce can be estimated by considering the effect of consolidation (Nicholson
and O’Connor, 1986):

τ ce = τ ce 0 + kt ( ρ d − ρ d 0 )nt (8)

where τce0=critical shear stress at the initial period of bed formation; ρd = dry bed density;
ρd0 = dry bed density at the initial period of bed formation; kt and nt are empirical
parameters with the values of 0.00037 and 1.5, respectively.

3. Hydrodynamic and cohesive sediment transport models

3.1 Governing equations
A three-dimensional flow and sediment transport model is needed to study the cohesive
sediment transport in surface waters. The CCHE3D hydrodynamic model (Jia et al. 2001, and
2005) and the associated transport model (Chao et al. 2006, 2009) were applied and are
presented in this paper. CCHE3D is a three-dimensional model that can be used to simulate
unsteady turbulent flows with irregular boundaries and free surfaces. It is a finite element
model utilizing a special method based on the collocation approach called the efficient element
method. This model has been successfully applied to analyze wind-driven flow, turbulent flow
fields in scour holes and around a submerged training structure in a meander bend. The
transport model was developed on the finite element platform of CCHE3D flow model.
The governing equations of the three-dimensional unsteady hydrodynamic model can be
written as follows:

∂ui (9)
=0
∂xi

∂ui ∂u 1 ∂p ∂ ⎛ ∂ui ⎞
+ uj i = − + ⎜ν − ui' u'j ⎟ + f i (10)
∂t ∂x j ρ ∂xi ∂x j ⎜⎝ ∂x j ⎟
⎠
where ui (i=1,2,3) = Reynolds-averaged flow velocities (u, v, w) in Cartesian coordinate
system (x, y, z); t = time; ρ = water density; p = pressure; ν = fluid kinematic viscosity;
−ui' u'j =Reynolds stress; and fi = body force terms.
The free surface elevation (η) is computed using the following equation:

∂η ∂η ∂η
+ uf + vf − wf = 0 (11)
∂t ∂x ∂y

where uf, vf and wf = velocities at the free surface; η = surface water elevation.
The governing equation for cohesive sediment transport is based on the three-dimensional
mass transport equation:

∂ C ∂ (uC ) ∂ ( vC ) ∂ ( w − ws )C ∂ ∂C ∂ ∂C ∂ ∂C
+ + + = (Dx )+ (Dy )+ (Dz ) (12)
∂t ∂x ∂y ∂z ∂x ∂x ∂y ∂y ∂z ∂z
142 Sediment Transport

in which C= concentration of cohesive sediment; Dx, Dy and Dz = mixing coefficients in x, y

and z directions, respectively; ws = settling velocity.

3.2 Boundary conditions

To solve the 3D cohesive sediment transport equation (12), the boundary conditions at the
free surface and bottom are needed. At the free surface, the vertical sediment flux is zero
and the following condition is applied:

∂C
wsC + Dz =0 (13)
∂z

At the bottom, the following condition is applied:

∂C
wsC + Dz = Db − Eb (14)
∂z

where Db and Eb = deposition rate and erosion (resuspension) rate at bottom, respectively
(kg/m2/s). They can be calculated using Eqs. (3) and (4).

3.3 Numerical simulation

In the CCHE3D model, the turbulence Reynolds stresses in Eq. (10) are approximated
according to Bousinesq’s Assumption and they are related to the rate of the strains of flow
fields and a coefficient of eddy viscosity. There are several turbulence closure schemes
available in the CCHE3D model, including two zero equation models (parabolic eddy
viscosity model and mixing length model), a k-ε model and a nonlinear k-ε model. In this
model, an upwinding scheme is adopted to eliminate oscillations due to advection, and a
convective interpolation function is used for this purpose due to its simplicity for the
implicit time marching scheme which was adopted in this model to solve the unsteady
equations. The numerical scheme of this approach is the second order. The velocity
correction method is applied to solve the dynamic pressure and enforce mass
conservation. Provisional velocities are solved first without the pressure term, and the
final solution of the velocity is obtained by correcting the provisional velocities with the
pressure solution (Jia et al., 2001). The system of the algebraic equations is solved using
the Strongly Implicit Procedure (SIP) method (Stone 1968).
The decoupled approach for flow and sediment simulation has been widely adopted in the
solution of many real-life engineering problems (Wu, 2008). In general, for the lower flow
regime with low sediment concentration (lower than 300 mg/l), the decoupled approach is
appropriate (Willis and Krishnappan, 2004; Wu, 2008). In this study, the flow and sediment
simulations were decoupled and the flow fields, including water elevation, velocity
components, and eddy viscosity parameters were obtained using the CCHE3D free surface
hydrodynamic model (Jia et al., 2001 and 2005). After obtaining flow fields, the settling
velocity, and boundary conditions of surface and bottom, the distribution of cohesive
sediment in the water column were computed by solving the 3D mass transport equation
(Eq. 12) numerically. The numerical method used for solving Eq. (12) is consistent with the
method employed in the CCHE3D model.
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 143

4. The effects of wind-driven flow and wind-induced wave on cohesive

sediment transport
In natural lakes, wind stress and wind-induced wave are important driving forces of lake
water flows. The water flows coming into and/or out of the lake are normally insignificant
to the volume of the water in the lake; in comparison, the current induced by wind are much
stronger and have complex distributions, because the wind forcing is acting on the entire
water surface. Therefore, the flow circulations within lakes are often influenced by wind. In
addition, temperature and salinity stratifications and the Coriolis force, etc., also play
important roles. It is observed that in many closed inland lakes, the temperature
stratification is minimal, the flow and sediment transport is dominated by wind-induced
currents, and the sediment resuspension is primarily affected by wind-induced waves.

4.1 Wind-driven flow

When vertical flow circulation is formed by wind stress, the turbulence stress in the flow
balances the momentum of the flow taking from the wind forcing. Because the turbulence
stress is related to eddy viscosity coefficient, the distribution of vertical eddy viscosity is
required for simulating the wind driven flow. A parabolic eddy viscosity distribution was
proposed by Tsanis (1989) based on the assumption of a double logarithmic velocity profile.
The vertical eddy viscosity was expressed as:

λ u* s (15)
νt = ( z + zb )( zs + H − z)
H
in which λ= numerical parameter; zb and zs = characteristic lengths determined at bottom
and surface, respectively; u*s = surface shear velocity; H = water depth. To use this formula,
three parameters, λ, zb and zs have to be determined. For some real cases with very small
water depths, using this formula to calculate eddy viscosity may cause some problems.
Koutitas and O’Connor (1980) proposed two formulas to calculate the eddy viscosity based
on a one-equation turbulence model. Their formulas were:

ν t = ν t ,maxη (2 − η ) ( 0 ≤ η ≤ 0.5 ) (16)

ν t = ν t ,max (1 − η )(5η − 1) ( 0.5 < η ≤ 1 ) (17)

where ν t ,max = λ u* s 0.105 H 0.3−0.25 = 0.142 λ u* s H (18)

in which, λ = numerical parameter; η = non-dimensional elevation, η = z / H .

In this paper, a new formula was proposed based on experimental measurements conducted
in a laboratory flume with steady-state wind driven flow reported by Koutitas and
O’Connor (1980). The form of eddy viscosity was borrowed from Koutitas and O’Connor’s
assumption (Eq. 16 and 17) and expressed as:

ν t = ν t ,max f (η ) (19)

Based on measured data, a formula was obtained to express the vertical eddy viscosity:

ν t = ν t ,maxη ( −3.24η 2 + 2.78η + 0.62) (20)

144 Sediment Transport

Fig. 1 shows the vertical distributions of eddy viscosity obtained from experimental
measurements and formulas provided by Tsanis (Eq.15), Koutitas (Eq. 16 and 17), and our
model (Eq.20). Since there is no measured value for eddy viscosity at the water surface, the
surface eddy viscosity may be estimated using Eq. 20. This formula can be used to calculate
the eddy viscosity over the full range of water depth.

0.8

0.6
z/H

0.4

0.2
measurements
this study
Koutitas (1980)
Tsanis (1989)
0
0 0.05 0.1 0.15
ν t/(u*sH)

Fig. 1. Comparison of vertical eddy viscosity formulas and experimental data

The wind shear stresses (τwx and τwy) at the free surface are expressed by

2 2
τ wx = ρ aC dU wind U wind + Vwind (21)

2 2
τ wy = ρ aC dVwind U wind + Vwind (22)

where ρ a = air density; Uwind and Vwind = wind velocity components at 10 m elevation in x
and y directions, respectively. Although the drag coefficient Cd may vary with wind speed
(Koutitas and O’Connor 1980; Jin et al. 2000), for simplicity, many researchers assumed the
drag coefficient was a constant on the order of 10-3 (Huang and Spaulding 1995; Bailey and
Hamilton 1997; Rueda and Schladow 2003; Kocyigit and Kocyigit 2004). In this study, Cd
was set to 1.0 × 10 −3 , and this value is applicable for simulating the wind driven flow in
Deep Hollow Lake (Chao et al 2004).
In this paper, the eddy viscosity was calculated using Eq. 20. The wind shear stresses were
calculated from wind speeds (Eq.21 and 22) and set as flow boundary condition at the free
surface. Using the developed numerical model, the flow fields induced by wind can be
simulated. Those flow fields determined the cohesive sediment transport in a water body.
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 145

4.2 Bed shear stress

In natural lakes, the interactions of high-frequency surface wind-induced waves with
relatively low-frequency currents determine the structures of near-bed shear stresses in
water bodies. Both mechanisms of shear stresses are considered in calculating sediment
deposition rate and erosion rate. If the wave and current boundary layers are turbulent, the
combined wave-current bottom shear stress is a highly nonlinear function which can be
estimated based on the Grant-Madsen wave-current model (Grant and Madsen 1979; Glenn
and Grant 1987).
Many investigations have shown the shear stresses exerted by circulatory currents are
generally much smaller than those due to waves in shallow lakes, and can be neglected
(Luettich et al. 1990; Hawley and Lesht 1992; Hamilton and Mitchell 1996). In this paper, the
total bottom shear stress is computed as the sum of wave and current shear stresses (van
Rijn, 1993; Hawley and Lesht, 1992; Teeter et al., 2001). In this study, the wind-induced
current is not very strong, so the bed shear stresses τb due to waves and currents can be
treated separately, and τb in Eq.(3) and (4) is calculated by

τb = τ w + τc (23)

where τw and τc = bottom shear stresses due to waves and currents, respectively.
The current shear stress τc at the bottom is calculated by:

τ c = ρ u*2 (24)

in which u* = shear velocity at bottom, and can be calculated by the log law:

u 1 ⎛ z⎞
= ln ⎜ ⎟ (25)
u* κ ⎝ zo ⎠

in which κ = von Karman constant; z0= roughness length which is a function of the bed
roughness height ks and shear velocity u* :

ν
zo = 0.11 u* ks ν ≤ 5 (26)
u*

zo = 0.0333 ks u* ks ν ≥ 70 (27)

v
zo = 0.11 + 0.0333 ks 5 < u* ks ν < 70 (28)
u*

The bottom shear stress generated by wind-induced waves can be calculated by the laminar
wave theory (Luettich et al. 1990):

1
τw = ρ f wU b2 (29)
2
in which Ub = maximum wave orbital velocity; and fw = friction factor. Based on the wave
boundary layer (Dyer, 1986), fw is given by
146 Sediment Transport

−0.5
⎛U A ⎞
fw = 2 ⎜ b b ⎟ (30)
⎝ ν ⎠
in which Ab = maximum wave orbital amplitude. Ab and Ub are given by CERC (1984):

1
Ab = (31)
2 sinh(2π d / L )

πH
Ub = (32)
T sinh(2π d / L )

So the bottom shear stress generated by wind waves τw can be calculated by

⎡ ⎛ 3 ⎞0.5 ⎤
⎢ ⎜ν ⎛ 2π ⎞ ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ ⎝⎜ T ⎠⎟ ⎟ ⎥
τ w = H ⎢ρ ⎝ ⎠ ⎥ (33)
⎢ 2 sinh ⎛ 2π d ⎞ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ ⎟
⎝ L ⎠⎥
⎢⎣ ⎥⎦

where H = wave height(m); d = water depth (m); T = wave period (s); and L = wave length (m).
In shallow lakes, the wind-induced wave parameters, such as wave height H, wave period T
and wave length L can be estimated using the following empirical formulas (CERC 1984):

⎡ 1/2 ⎤
⎢ ⎛ gF ⎞ ⎥
⎡ ⎛ ⎞
3/4 ⎤ ⎢ 0.00565 ⎜⎜ U 2 ⎟⎟ ⎥
gH ⎢0.53 ⎜ gd ⎟ ⎥ tanh ⎢ ⎝ w⎠ ⎥ (34)
= 0.283 tanh ⎜ U2 ⎟ ⎥
U w2 ⎢ ⎝ w⎠ ⎦ ⎢ ⎡ ⎛ ⎞
3/8 ⎤ ⎥
⎣ ⎢ tanh ⎢0.53 ⎜ gd ⎥⎥
⎢ ⎢ ⎜ U 2 ⎟⎟ ⎥ ⎥
⎣ ⎣ ⎝ w ⎠
⎦⎦

⎡ 1/2 ⎤
⎢ ⎛ gF ⎞ ⎥
⎡ ⎛ gd ⎞ ⎤
3/8 ⎢ 0.0379 ⎜⎜ U 2 ⎟⎟ ⎥
gT ⎝ ⎠
= 7.54 tanh ⎢0.833 ⎜⎜ 2 ⎟⎟ ⎥ tanh ⎢ w ⎥ (35)
Uw ⎢ ⎝ Uw ⎠ ⎥ ⎢ ⎡ ⎛ ⎞
3/8 ⎤⎥
⎣ ⎦ ⎢ tanh ⎢0.833 ⎜ gd ⎥⎥
⎢ ⎢ ⎜ U 2 ⎟⎟ ⎥ ⎥
⎣ ⎣ ⎝ w⎠
⎦⎦

gT 2 2π d
L= tanh (36)
2π L
where g = acceleration of gravity(m/s2); Uw = wind speed at 10 m above the water
surface(m/s); and F = fetch length of wind (m).
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 147

5. Model verification
5.1 Verification of the model for wind-driven flow
The actual process of wind-shear-driven flow is very complicated: waves are generated by
the wind; the main flow near the free surface moves in the wind direction while the flow
near the bed may move in the opposite direction to offset the surface flow. In order to check
the correctness of the computational models and assure the errors between the observation
and prediction are not due to mathematic derivation and numerical coding, verification of
the computational models using analytical solutions is necessary. Because it is not possible
to have analytical solutions under general conditions, analytical solutions obtained for a
simplified problem are often used for model verification.
This test case concerns the simulation of a steady vertical two-dimensional wind-induced
flow in a uniform closed rectangular basin of constant water depth with a known, constant
vertical eddy viscosity coefficient. Using the no-slip condition at the channel bed, the
analytical solution for the horizontal velocity component was given by Koutitas and
O’Connor (1980).
In the numerical simulation, the water depth was set as 40 m, and three meshes with
different vertical elements set as 6, 11 and 21 points, were used for model simulation. The
other parameters were adopted as follows: water density ρw=1000 kg/m3; eddy viscosityνt
=0.03 m2/s, wind shear stress τwx=0.1 N/m2; and gravitational acceleration g=9.817 m/s2. Fig. 2
shows the comparison of the analytical solution and the numerical simulation results for
velocity profiles along the water depth. All of the results using the three meshes are in good
agreement with the analytical solution. The surface maximum velocity umax obtained from
numerical model using three meshes are 0.0337 m/s, 0.0334 m/s and 0.0334 m/s, respectively,
and the result obtained from the analytical solution is 0.03333 m/s. At the depth of (2/3)H, the
flow changes directions from positive to negative. The local maximum negative velocity
(u=1/3 umax) is located at the depth of (1/3)H.

Fig. 2. Comparison of the analytical solution and the numerical simulation of wind-driven
flow
148 Sediment Transport

5.2 Verification for the mass transport model

The proposed cohesive sediment transport model was tested against an analytical solution
for predicting the concentrations of a non-conservative substance in a hypothetical one-
dimensional river flow with constant depth and velocity. A continuous source of a non-
conservative substance was placed at the upstream end of a straight channel for a finite
period of time, τ (Fig. 3). Under the unsteady condition, the concentration of the substance
throughout the river can be expressed as:

∂C s ∂C ∂ 2C s
+ U s = Dx − K dC s (37)
∂t ∂x ∂x 2
where U = velocity; Cs = concentration of substance; Dx = mixing coefficient; and Kd = decay
rate. An analytical solution given by Chapra (1997) is:

C0 ⎡ ⎛ Ux ⎞ ⎛ x − UtΓ ⎞ ⎛ Ux ⎞ ⎛ x + UtΓ ⎞ ⎤
Cs (x , t ) = ⎢exp ⎜ (1 − Γ ) ⎟ erfc ⎜ ⎟ + exp ⎜ (1 + Γ ) ⎟ erfc ⎜ ⎟ ⎥ (t<τ) (38)
2 ⎣⎢ ⎝ 2 Dx ⎜ ⎟ ⎝ 2 Dx ⎜ ⎟
⎠ ⎝ 2 Dxt ⎠ ⎠ ⎝ 2 Dxt ⎠ ⎦⎥

C 0 ⎪⎧ ⎛ Ux ⎞⎡ ⎛ x − UtΓ ⎞ ⎛ x − U (t − τ )Γ ⎞ ⎤
Cs (x , t ) = ⎨exp ⎜ (1 − Γ ) ⎟ ⎢ erfc ⎜ ⎟ − erfc ⎜ ⎟⎥
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
2 ⎩⎪ ⎝ 2Dx ⎠ ⎢⎣ ⎝ 2 Dx t ⎠ ⎝ 2 Dx (t − τ ) ⎠ ⎥⎦
(t > τ) (39)
⎛ Ux ⎞⎡ ⎛ x + UtΓ ⎞ ⎛ x + U(t − τ )Γ ⎞ ⎤ ⎫⎪
+ exp ⎜ (1 + Γ ) ⎟ ⎢ erfc ⎜ ⎟ − erfc ⎜ ⎟⎥
⎝ 2Dx ⎜ ⎟ ⎜ 2 D (t − τ ) ⎟ ⎥ ⎬
⎠ ⎣⎢ ⎝ 2 Dxt ⎠ ⎝ x ⎠ ⎦ ⎭⎪

K d Dx
where Γ = 1 + 4η , and η = . For the river conditions shown in Fig. 3, with a depth of
U2
10 m, u = 0.03m/s, Dx = 30 m2/s, τ = 6 hr, and the values of Kd = 0, 1.0/day and 2.0/day,
respectively. Fig. 4 shows the time series of concentration at the section x = 2000 m obtained
by the numerical model and analytical solution. The maximum error is less than 2%.

Fig. 3. Test river for verification case

6. Model application to Deep Hollow Lake

6.1 Study area
Fig.5 shows the study area of Deep Hollow Lake. It has a typical morphology of an oxbow
lake, with a length of about 1 km and a width of about 100 m. Lake water depth ranges from
0.5 m to 2.6 m, with the greatest depth in the middle. The lake receives runoff from a two
square kilometer watershed that is heavily cultivated. This lake is located in Leflore County,
Mississippi, and it was one of three natural lakes in the Mississippi River Alluvial Plain
monitored under the interagency Mississippi Delta Management System Evaluation Area
Project (MDMSEA). This project was part of a national program designed to evaluate the
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 149

12

Concentration of mass(mg/l) 10 analysis(Kd=0)

analysis(Kd=1/day)
8 analysis(Kd=2/day)
simulation(Kd=0)
simulation(Kd=1/day)
6 simulation(Kd=2/day)

0
0 12 24 36 48 60 72 84 96 108 120 132 144
Time (hour)

Fig. 4. The time series of concentration at the section x = 2000m obtained from the numerical
model and analytical solution
impact of agricultural practices on water quality and to develop best management practices
(BMPs) to minimize adverse effects of agricultural activities on water quality of the lakes
(Rebich and Knight, 2001; Locke 2004).

Fig. 5. Study Site – Deep Hollow Lake

Weekly or biweekly samples of suspended sediment, nutrients, chlorophyll, bacteria, and
other selected water quality variables were collected at Stations DH1, DH2 and DH3. Two of
the major inflows, located at the Stations UL1 and UL2, were monitored for water quality
and quantity by the U.S. Geological Survey. The nutrient concentrations in Deep Hollow
Lake are mainly dependent on the fertilizer loadings in the surrounding farmland and the
quantity of runoff. Field measurements show that the concentrations of nitrate and
ammonia in the lake are very low, while the concentration of phosphorus is relatively high
in comparison with other areas nationwide. Suspended sediment concentrations are
150 Sediment Transport

relatively high, exceeding published levels known to adversely impact fish growth and
health (Rebich and Knight, 2001).
Based on bathymetric data, the computational domain was discretized into a structured
finite element mesh using the CCHE Mesh Generator (Zhang 2002). In the horizontal plane,
the irregular computational domain was represented by a 95 × 20 mesh. In the vertical
direction, the domain was divided into 8 layers with finer spacing near the bed. This grid
system has been successfully applied to simulate the flow and water quality in Deep Hollow
Lake (Chao et al 2004 and 2006).

6.2 Model calibration

The cohesive sediment transport model was calibrated using weekly field data and analysis
of lake water samples obtained between October and December, 1999. Although there was
no water flow discharged into the lake during this period, the measured suspended
sediment concentrations varied from 20 to 90 mg/l (Rebich and Knight, 2001). Evidently
these concentrations were reflecting the influence of wind-induced currents and waves.
Based on field measurements conducted by the USDA, National Sedimentation Laboratory,
the median diameter of sediment particles d50 in Deep Hollow Lake is ~
2.5 × 10 −6 − 3 × 10 −6 m, well within the clay size range. The settling velocity of cohesive
sediment was estimated using Eqs.(1) and (2) to be on the order of 10-4 m/s.
Fig. 6 shows observed wind speeds and directions at the 3-meter level during the calibration
period. The flow currents induced by wind during this period were obtained by the
CCHE3D hydrodynamic model. The flow patterns were mainly determined by wind
stresses. Wind shear on the surface of the lake forced upper layers of the water column to
move in the direction of the wind, and produced opposite movement in deeper layers. The
flow model was first calibrated using field measurements obtained from Deep Hollow Lake
using an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (Shields et al. 2003), and then it was applied to
simulate the flow fields during the simulation period. The surface velocities were measured
using floating tracer particles. Fig. 7 shows the comparison of simulated flow currents with
field measurements. It can be seen that the numerical results are generally in good
agreement with field measurements. Figs. 8a and 8b show the simulated flow currents
during the calibration period.
In order to test the model simulation capability of mass transport under the wind driven
condition, the field observation data of a slug–injection dye tracer study at Deep Hollow
Lake conducted by National Sedimentation Laboratory was compared with model results
(Chao et al. 2007). Fig. 9 shows the dye concentration distribution in the lake at a depth of
1.25m and 24hr after injection. During this period, the prevailing wind direction was from
southwest to northeast. The computed dye concentrations are generally in good agreement
with the observations.
The bed shear stress generated by wind-induced currents can be obtained using CCHE3D,
and the values of the bed shear stress were in the order of 10-3 N/m2. Computed results
show that the bed shear stresses generated by wind waves were generally in the ranges of
10-2 to 10-3 N/m2, about one order of magnitude greater than those produced by wind-
induced currents. Evidently, sediment in Deep Hollow Lake is primarily re-suspended by
wind wave action and transported primarily by currents induced by wind.
For the sediment resuspension or deposition to occur, bed shear stress must be greater than
the critical erosion shear stress (τce), or less than the critical deposition shear stress (τcd),
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 151

Fig. 6. Observed wind speeds and directions at 3m level

measurement measurement
computation computation
1.4 1.4

1.2 1.2

1 1

0.8 0.8
z (m)
z (m)

0.6 0.6

0.4 0.4

0.2 0.2

0 0

-0.2 -0.2
-10 -5 0 5 10 15 -10 -5 0 5 10 15
U (cm/s) V (cm/s)

Fig. 7. Observed and simulated velocity at Station DH1 (11:05 am, 11/12/03)

0.04

0.03 surface layer

bottom layer
0.02
Velocity (m/s)

0.01

-0.01

-0.02

-0.03
280 300 320 340 360
Julian day, 1999

Fig. 8a. Simulated east-west velocity components at Station DH1

152 Sediment Transport

0.06

surface layer
0.04 bottom layer

Velocity (m/s) 0.02

-0.02

280 300 320 340 360

Julian day, 1999

Fig. 8b. Simulated north-south velocity components at Station DH1

measurements numerical solution

Fig. 9. Dye concentration distribution at Deep Hollow Lake (T=1500 minutes, H=1.25m)
respectively. Previous studies on cohesive sediment transport in lakes, have reported that
values for τce and τcd in the range of 0.009 N/m2 to 0.25 N/m2 and 0 to 0.18 N/m2,
respectively (Lou et al. 2000; Hamilton and Mitchell 1996; Ziegler and Nisbet 1995; Mehta
and Partheniades 1975).
Since these two critical stresses were not measured in Deep Hollow Lake, sensitivity
analyses were conducted to determine the values of critical shear stresses for erosion and
deposition (τce, τcd). Fig. 10 and Fig.11 show the cohesive sediment concentration at DH2
Station under different values of τce and τcd, respectively. In general, the suspended sediment
concentrations increase with the decrease of critical shear stresses for erosion and deposition
(τce, τcd). By comparing the numerical results of sediment concentration with field
measurements shown on Fig. 10 and Fig. 11, the values of τce and τcd for the model
calibration run were set to 0.02 N/m2 and 0.01 N/m2, respectively.
Fig. 12 and Fig.13 show the simulated and observed concentrations of cohesive sediment at
Stations DH1 and DH2. Some differences between measurement and prediction may arise
from the fact that measurements occurred weekly while the time step for the simulation was
300 seconds. However, trends obtained from the numerical model were generally in
agreement with the observations. Fig. 12 and Fig.13 also show the concentration of cohesive
sediment at Stations DH1 and DH2 without considering the effects of wind-induced waves.
Big errors between simulations and measurements were observed without considering the
wave effects.
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 153

140

Sediment concentration (mg/l)

measurements
120 critical shear stress=0.008N/m2
critical shear stress=0.01N/m2
critical shear stress=0.012N/m2
100 critical shear stress=0.015N/m2
critical shear stress=0.02N/m2

80

60

40

20
280 300 320 340 360
Julian day, 1999

Fig. 10. The time series of sediment concentration with different critical shear stress for
deposition at Station DH2

140
Sediment concentration (mg/l)

measurements
120 critical shear stress=0.009N/m2
critical shear stress=0.02N/m2
critical shear stress=0.05N/m2
100 critical shear stress=0.1N/m2
critical shear stress=0.25N/m2

80

60

40

20
280 300 320 340 360
Julian day, 1999

Fig. 11. The time series of sediment concentration with different critical shear stress for
erosion at Station DH2

100
Sediment concentration (mg/l)

measurements
computation (with wave)
80 computation (without wave)

60

40

20

0
280 300 320 340 360
Julian day, 1999

Fig. 12. Suspended sediment concentration at Station DH1

154 Sediment Transport

100

Sediment concentration (mg/l)

measurements
80 computation (with wave)
computation (without wave)

60

40

20

0
280 300 320 340 360
Julian day, 1999

Fig. 13. Suspended sediment concentration at Station DH2

A set of statistics was used to assess the performance of the model (Stow et al 2003). The
mean error and root mean square error (RMSE) of the model predictions and observations
are summarized in Table 1. Without considering the effects of wind-induced waves, the
percentages of mean errors of cohesive sediment concentration at Stations DH1 and DH2
were increased from 8% to 24%, and from 11% to 38%, respectively; Root Mean Square
Errors (RMSE) of cohesive sediment concentration for DH1 and DH2 Stations were
increased from 15.2 to 29.5 mg/l, and from 11.7 to 29.4 mg/l, respectively.
Fig. 6 shows that from the beginning to Julian day 322, winds were not strong and wind
wave effects were negligible. After the Julian day 322, wind speeds (3m above surface) were
generally greater than 4 m/s, and the major direction was southeast. Due to the relative long
wind fetch and shallow water depth at the upstream end of the lake, the wave – induced
bottom shear stress was greater there and caused sediment resuspension in that area. As
shown in Figs. 12 and 13, wind-driven waves played a significant role in sediment
resuspension and the maximum additional sediment concentration due to wave effects
could reach 60 mg/l.

Root
Mean
Mean Wave Mean Mean mean
Stations prediction
observations(mg/l) Effects error(mg/l) error(%) square
(mg/l)
error
Yes 50.02 3.72 8 15.2
DH1 46.30
No 35.27 -11.03 -24 29.5
Yes 45.69 -5.71 -11 11.7
DH2 51.4
No 32.09 -19.31 -38 29.4
Table 1. Calibration statistics of cohesive sediment concentration in Deep Hollow Lake

6.3 Model validation

The period from August to October 2000 was chosen for model validation. Just as for the
calibration period, there was no water flow discharged into the lake during this period, and
wind and wind-induced waves were the major factors for cohesive sediment movement.
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 155

Parameter values in the simulation were based on those calibrated values during the period
of October to December, 1999. Fig. 14 shows the observed wind speeds and directions at the
3-meter level during the validation period. Fig. 15 shows the simulated and observed
concentrations of cohesive sediment at Station DH2. Although there were some differences
between measurement and prediction, trends and quantities of concentration of cohesive
sediment from the numerical model were generally in agreement with the observations.
During the validation period, the effects of wind-induced waves were not as significant as in
the calibration period. It can be seen from Fig.15, due to the effects of wind-induced waves, the
sediment concentrations have some differences after the Julian day 270. Fig. 14 shows strong
northwest (NW) winds (>5m/s) occurred for a few days during a period from Julian day 270
to 290. However, due to the relative short wind fetch, the wave–induced bottom shear stresses
were not large, and sediment resuspension due to the wave effects may not be so significant.
In another short period from Julian day 310 to 318, wind speeds were generally greater than 4
m/s, and the major direction was southeast (SE). Due to the relative long wind fetch and
shallow water depth at the upstream of the lake, the wave–induced bottom shear stresses were
great enough to cause sediment resuspension in that area. Both field measurements and
numerical results show sediment concentration in this period increased gradually.

Fig. 14. Observed wind speeds and directions at 3-meter level

80
Sediment concentration (mg/l)

measurements
computation (with wave)
computation (without wave)
60

40

20

0
220 240 260 280 300 320
Julian day, 2000

Fig. 15. Suspended sediment concentration at Station DH2

156 Sediment Transport

7. Discussion
7.1 Effects of wind induced current and wave on sediment resuspension in Deep
Hollow Lake
Field observations of Deep Hollow Lake indicated that the suspended sediment
concentration is affected strongly by wind-induced currents and waves. To better
understand this dynamic process in Deep Hollow Lake, wind-induced currents and waves
were simulated for some hypothetical cases. It was assumed the wind speed at 10-meter
level was 10m/s, and the directions were S, SE, SW, N, NE and NW. Table 2 shows the
comparisons of simulation results of wind-induced currents and waves for all the cases. On
the water surface, the mean velocities of wind-induced currents were from 0.078 to 0.083
m/s, about 0.8% of wind speed. The maximum bottom shear stresses due to current were
from 0.02 to 0.024 N/m2, slightly greater than the critical shear stress (0.02 N/m2). In most
areas of the lake, the wind current-induced bottom shear stresses were less than critical
shear stress for erosion. For the S, SE and SW wind, computed results show that the
maximum bed shear stresses generated by wind waves were generally about one order of
magnitude greater than bed shear stresses due to currents. For the N, NE and NW wind, the
maximum bed shear stresses due to waves were about 2 to 4 times greater than those due to
currents. So in Deep Hollow Lake, if there is no runoff discharged into the lake, suspended
sediment is transported primarily by wind- induced currents and resuspended primarily by
wind wave action.
Figure 16 shows regions where the wind wave-induced bottom shear stress exceeds critical
shear stress for erosion under the actions of wind from S, SE, SW, N, NE, and NW directions
in Deep Hollow Lake. Those regions might be the potential sediment resuspension area in
the lake due to the effects of wind- induced waves.

Fig. 16. Regions where the wind wave-induced bottom shear stresses exceed critical shear
stress under the actions of wind from S, SE, SW, N, NE, and NW directions
Three- Dimensional Numerical Simulation of Cohesive Sediment Transport in Natural Lakes 157

Wind direction Wind speed (m/s) τw,max (N/m2) τc,max(N/m2) us (m/s)

S 10 0.2 0.024 0.078
SE 10 0.423 0.023 0.083
SW 10 0.213 0.02 0.079
N 10 0.065 0.024 0.080
NE 10 0.095 0.024 0.081
NW 10 0.033 0.021 0.081
Table 2. Simulation results for wind-induced currents and waves for all the cases.
In Table 2, τw,max = maximum wind wave induced bottom shear stress; τc,max = maximum current
induced bottom shear stress; and us = averaged surface velocity.

8. Conclusions
A three-dimensional numerical model for simulating the concentration of cohesive sediment
influenced by currents and wind waves in natural lakes has been presented. The bottom
shear stresses induced by wind driven flow and waves were calculated, and the processes of
resuspension, deposition, settling, etc., were considered. This model was first verified using
analytical solutions of flow and mass transport, and then it was applied to simulate the
concentrations of suspended sediment in a closed inland lake, Deep Hollow. Trends and
magnitudes of cohesive sediment concentration obtained from the numerical model were
generally in good agreement with field observations. Field measurements and model results
show that the sediment is resuspended primarily by the actions of wind waves and
transported by wind driven flow in the lake. This model provides a useful tool for
predicting the cohesive sediment resuspension and transportation in a natural lake, which is
an important component for studying the lake water quality and ecology system.

9. Acknowledgments
This work is a result of research sponsored by the USDA-ARS National Sedimentation
Laboratory and the University of Mississippi. The suggestions and advice provided by Dr.
F. Douglas Shields, Jr and Dr. Charles M. Cooper of the USDA-ARS National Sedimentation
Laboratory, and Dr. Sam, S.Y. Wang, Dr. Weiming Wu, Dr. Yan Ding and Ms. Kathy
McCombs of NCCHE, The University of Mississippi are highly appreciated.

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 8

Sediment Transport Dynamics in

River Networks Induced by Water Diversion
Xu-Ming Wang, Jie Huo, Rui Hao and Shi-Feng Cao
NingXia University
P.R.China

1. Introduction
A river network is a typical completely open system formed by interconnected river
channels. The interactions between the imports of a river (water and sediment) and the
channel will cause the change of the channel patterns. This is actually a feedback between
the erosion and the sedimentation states of the channel via an adjustment of the sediment-
carrying capability of the stream. This feedback mechanism indicates that river network is a
self-organized system (Rodriguez-Iturbe, 1997), and some dynamical laws lead its evolution
and some statistic laws dominate its steady state (Leopold, 1953; Leopold & Maddock, 1953;
Dodds & Rothman, 2000). So, river networks have attracted, in decades past, a good much
attention of physicists and geophysicists (Banavar, et al., 1997; Manna & Subramanian, 1996;
Manna, 1998; Sinclair & Ball, 1996; Kramer & Marder, 1992; Takayasu & Inaoka, 1996; Maritan,
et al., 1996; Caldarelli, et al., 1997; Giacometti, 2000; Somfai & Sander, 1997; Rinaldo, et al.,
1996, and so on). They focused mainly on the distributions of river parameters or the scaling
relations between them, as well as the evolutionary mechanism, that is, what creates the
distributions and scaling relations?
The pioneering field investigation executed by Leopold revealed that the slope, width and
depth of a channel respectively depend on the discharge in power functions (Leopold &
Maddock, 1953). From then, some other scaling relations, in power functions, between river
parameters were found (Hack, 1957; Flint, 1974). The theoretical studies for the purpose of
getting deeper understandings of the reasons why the nature has selected these laws were
conducted by the dynamic modeling based on the local erosion rules (for instance, Banavar, et
al. ,1997) or the other considerations, such as erosion process based on the minimum energy
dissipation (Sun, 1994; Dhar, 2006), evolution of a quasi-random spanning tree (Manna, 1996),
statistical physics method based on the self-similarity theory (Banavar, et al. ,1997), and so on.
Our previous modeling studies were focused on another process, that is, sediment transport
in river networks (Wang, et al. 2008; Hao, et al., 2008; Huo, et al., 2009). The core spirit of the
models embodies the feedback mechanism between erosion and sedimentation via the
adjustment of sediment-carrying capability (SCC) of runoff. A steady state shows scaling
law that the quantity of erosion or sedimentation (QES) distributes exponentially along the
channel in the downriver direction. The response of a river to the abrupt change of the input
shows self-organized and self-adaptive behaviors. The former is represented by opposite
variation of the SCC to the QES as the discharge changes, which shows that the response of
the river trends to depress the increase of erosion as water flow increases and that of
162 Sediment Transport

sedimentation as water flow decreases, the latter is denoted by the deformation of the
channel forced by sediment erosion or sedimentation. Sediment concentration is a key factor
that influences the sediment transport dynamics in higher-water seasons for its higher
value. A higher sediment concentration implies that the stream will inject more sediment
into its downriver neighbouring segment of the channel. It follows that the SCC of the
stream flowing in this neighbouring segment will be compelled to improve. In other words,
the SCC of a channel will be driven by higher sediment concentration of injecting stream
(Huo, et al., 2009). The basic natural process associated with sediment transport in a river
network is streams confluence occurs from the top rank segments to the bottom rank ones.
The change of water flux caused by the confluence will lead to the deformation of the
channel due to erosion or sedimentation. In contrast to the confluence, water diversion is
often related to the hydraulic engineering, and therefore of practical significance. It may be
similar to confluence that diversion will cause the change of the discharge, and then result in
the variation of the QES. In this article, a sediment transport dynamical model, for
confluence and/or diversion, is proposed to investigate the influence of water diversion on
the mainstream. The model is based on the mechanisms that the SCC of a stream is modified
by the QES and driven by the sediment concentration of the injecting streams. As far as
these two adjustment mechanisms of SCC are concerned, the former is positive and the
latter is passive. The numerical results of this model can simulate the dynamic behavior in
real river networks: water diversion can cause sedimentation to increase (for instance,
Zhang & Liang, 1995). The transient dynamics shows some interesting characteristics. (Huo,
et al., 2009).

Fig. 1. Schematic drawing of ranks of a river and the segments

In our previous works, we introduced a new ordering scheme of river network (Wang, et al.
2008; Hao, et al., 2008; Huo, et al., 2009). As shown by Fig.1, the rank of a stream can be
defined as the times of the confluence while it drains to the sea. If one goes against a stream,
say rank h, at each of nodes where the confluences occur, the laterally injecting stream
belongs to the branches of rank h+1, but the non-laterally injecting stream is actually one
segment of this stream. So the rank of a stream can be uniquely determined by the times of
its laterally injecting confluences as it drains to the sea. And the segments of a stream can be
numbered with the times of its non-laterally injecting confluences as it drains to the sea. The
first segment is at the upper end, which is actually taken as the source. And then the
segment number increases one by one as branches of rank i+1 inject into the stream in turn.
For convenience, we denote the stream flowing on a channel segment by the segment itself.
Sediment Transport Dynamics in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 163

So one segment can be denoted by three characters, for instance, (l,h,i), they represent the ‘i
th’ segment of the ‘lth’ channel of rank ‘h’, respectively.

2. The model
As discussed above, a confluence of streams is a fundamental process in natural river
networks, while a diversion is often related to the hydraulic engineering. Both of the
confluence and diversion will cause change of the discharge, and then result in the variation
of the QES. Let's firstly consider the confluence of streams on the segments and diversion on
some one segment in a time interval, t→t+dt , which can be simply denoted by t (one of the
discrete time variables, i.e., t=1,2,…). So the confluence or diversion, in the t th time step,
can be directly expressed as

Qhl (i + 1, t + 1) = Qhl (i , t ) ± Qhi + 1 (ilast , t ) h = 0,1, 2 (1)

Where "+" and "-" is applicable to confluence and diversion, respectively. i,l=1,2,…, and i=1
denotes the source of the stream. The denotation, ilast , represents the last segment for a
confluence, or the diversion channel for a diversion. This equation indicates that the flux of
the stream that is running on segment i+1 in time step t+1, Qhl (i + 1, t + 1) , is equal to the flux
of the outflows of segment i and the last segment of the ith branch of rank h+1 in time step t,
Qhl (i , t ) and Qhi (ilast , t ) . It’s obvious that Qhl (i + 1, t + 1) actually denotes the outflow of
segment i+1 in time step t+1, and the outflow of segment i is also the inflow of the segment
i+1. The transported sediment, S, carried by water in a higher-water season (usually has
higher sediment concentration, q, in compare with that in a lower-water season) not only
depends on the flux of the stream but is also driven by the sediment concentration of the
injecting stream from its upriver neighbour. The higher the sediment concentration of the
stream flowing in segment i is, the more sediment is injecting into segment i+1, and the
more sediment has to be transported in this segment. Thereupon the following relation can
be taken to express the aforementioned passive adjustment mechanism of SCC (Huo, et al.
2009):

Shl (i + 1, t ) = Ahl (i + 1, t )Qhl (i + 1, t )a qhl ( i , t )b (2)

It means that the transported sediment is nonlinearly determined by both stream flow and
the sediment concentration of the injecting stream. Where a and b are exponents, which are
related to the landform and scale of basin, etc.. A is the so-called sediment-carrying
coefficient, which denotes the positive part of the SCC and is adjusted by the undergone
erosion or sedimentation state.
Generally, the sediment carried by outflow of a segment may not be equal to that carried by
the inflows. So erosion or sedimentation will occur in the segment. Based on the confluence
and/or diversion expressed by equation (1) and the definition presented above, the QES in
this time step can be determined by equation

ΔShl (i + 1, t ) = Shl (i + 1, t ) − (S( lh (i , t ) ± Shi +1 (ilast , t )) (3)

Where "+" and "-" is for confluence and diversion, respectively. The relation expresses QES
on the i+1th segment in the tth time step. ΔShl ( i , t ) > 0 indicates that the segment is eroded,
while ΔShl (i , t ) < 0 means that it is deposited.
164 Sediment Transport

The positive adjustment of SCC, A, is described as follows:

1. Confluence: As presented in our previous studies (Wang, et al., 2008; Hao, et al., 2008
and Huo, et al., 2009), sediment-carrying coefficient A of segment i+1 will increase in
time step t+1 if it is deposited but decrease if it is eroded in time step t due to a basic
fact that the sedimentation implies both of the deposited and suspended sediment
particles are relatively smaller, which leads to enhancement of the viscosity intensity of
fluid and increase in the friction of river-bed against the flow, so the stream can carry
more sediment. On the contrary, the erosion implies the deposited material over the
river-bed and the suspended particles in the water become coarser. It causes the friction
to reduce, thus the stream can transport lesser sediment. So this adjustment of SCC via
the variation of A is conducted by the QES on the segment itself.
In fact, A of the stream is also adjusted by QES on its upriver neighbouring segment in the
reversed way of that just mentioned above. If a segment is in scouring state, the increasing
sediment may cause A of its downriver neighbouring segment to increase so that the stream
can discharge more sediment, while if the segment is in deposited state, the decreasing
sediment may let A of the downriver neighbouring segment decrease. Naturally, the QES on
the last segment of a higher rank branch may work upon A in the same way.
2. Diversion: diversion differs from confluence mainly in the direction of water flowing,
and the influence of it on the sediment transport dynamics is principally determined by
the so-called water diversion ratio (WDR) that is defined as

κ = Qhi +1 (ilast , t ) / Qhl (i , t ) (4)

and the corresponding sediment diversion ratio(SDR) that is expressed as

λ = Shi + 1 (ilast , t ) / Shl (i , t ) . (5)

An experiential equation obtained by a fitting of the field measurement in the Yellow River
may generally describe the relation between κ and λ (Zhao, et al., 1997), that is,
λ = Bκ α Qhl (i , t )β , which means that the diverted sediment nonlinearly depends on WDR and
discharge, so we have

Shi + 1 ( ilast , t ) = Bκ α Qhl (i , t )β Shl (i , t ) . (6)

As κ > λ there should be an inequality, qhi + 1 (ilast , t ) < qhl (i , t ) , which indicates that the
stream, injecting the main channel after diversion, is of lesser water but more sediment. It
may compel the stream to improve the SCC, while κ < λ , qhi + 1 (ilast , t ) > qhl (i , t ) means that
the injecting stream after diversion becomes lesser water and lesser sediment. This may
abate the burden of transporting sediment for the stream, so the SCC may decrease. Such
adjustment of SCC via sediment concentration is the same of the aforementioned passive
one in the case of confluence. Meanwhile, the abrupt change of the sediment concentration
induced by water diversion will lead to the rapid response of the channel via variation of
QES at once. Then the positive adjustment of SCC conducted by QES works here in the same
way of confluence. So the positive adjustment of the SCC, A, being fit for the description of
confluence and/or diversion, can be expressed as

Ahl (i + 1, t + 1) = Ahl (i + 1, t ) − k1ΔShl ( i + 1, t ) /(Qhl (i + 1, t + 1)a q' (t + 1)b )

(7)
− k2 ΔS' (t ) /(Qhl (i + 1, t + 1)a q' (t + 1)b )
Sediment Transport Dynamics in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 165

Where k1 , k2 denotes the strength of the positive adjustment of SCC respectively from the
QES on segment i+1 and that of both the QES on segment i and on the last segment of rank
h+1. ΔS' (t ) and q' (t+1) in Equ.(7) have different meaning for confluence and diversion.
According to the discussions above, equations q' (t + 1) = qhl (i , t + 1) + qhi + 1 (ilast , t + 1) and
ΔS' (t )=ΔShl (i , t )+ΔShi (ilast , t ) satisfy for confluence. As far as the diversion, if the influence of
the state of the diversion channel on the main channel can be neglected, we can draw the
conclusion that as soon as the diversion is executed the diverted water drops out of the river
network. Therefore, there are relations q' (t + 1) = qhl (i+1, t + 1) and ΔS' (t )=ΔShl (i , t ) . The
former implies that the SCC of the stream flowing in the segment below and near to the
diversion mouth is actually driven by the sediment concentration of the injecting stream.
In our model, any one upriver segment can be chosen as the source of the stream. The
regular or irregular change of the discharge ξ (t ) represents rainfall. Rainfall usually results
in the fluctuation of sediment concentration ζ (t ) , and then we have

Qhl (1, t ) = Qh 0 + ξ (t ) , (8)

qhl (1, t ) = qh 0 + ζ (t ) , (9)

ΔShl (1, t ) = ΔSh 0 (10)

for all possible h , l and t . Here we assign a fixed value to ΔSh 0 for simplicity.
The core spirit of our model consists in the description of self-adjustability of a river in the
sediment transport process, which is manifested by the positive adjustment of SCC that is
expressed by Equ. (7). Similar self-adjustability is often related to the dynamics of a
completely open system. The simulation work may not only help us to understand the
nature of sediment transport in river networks but also provide us with some illumination
for general dynamics of self-adaptive systems else.
When a diversion is executed, there are many factors that influence the dynamics of
sediment transport such as WDR, SDR, the discharge and the sediment concentration of the
injecting fluid. The interaction of these factors will induce much more complex behaviour of
the dynamics, which usually differs from that without diversion. Here we present the
discussions of the simplest case, h = 0, l = 1 , so the superscript l can be deleted in the
aforementioned equations. Please note that in our simulation, the diversion mouth is located
at the node that connects the 20th segment and the 21st segment. In our study, the values of
the parameters and variables are set as ΔS0 (i ,1) = 15.0 , S0 ( i ,1) = 10.0 , k1 = 6.0 × 10 4 ,
k2 = 9.0 × 10 5 , A(1, t ) = 5.7 × 10 2 , Q1 (i , t ) = 80.0 , q1 (i , t ) = 10.0 , a = 1.1 , b = 0.7 , α = 1.2 ,
β = −0.2 , B=8.0 and Q0 (i ,1) = rand(i = 1 ∼ 30,100.0 ∼ 150.0) (random function, rand(i) ,
denotes the operation that assigning 30 random numbers, produced between 100.0 and
150.0, to Q0 (i ,1) ).

3. Influence of WDR on sediment transport

As discussed above, the relative distance of the value of κ and that of λ can influence the
state of the main channel via changing the SCC of the stream. Fig. 2 shows this relation as
the diversion is executed for 6000 time steps, Fig. 3 (a) presents QES on the segments below
the diversion mouth and Fig.3 (b) denotes the corresponding SCC. Fig. 2 indicates that there
is a critical value of WDR, κ c = 0.051 . As κ < κ c , κ > λ , the injecting stream of the 21st
166 Sediment Transport

segment will become lesser water and more sediment, which implies that the sedimentation
will occur due to the forced increase of SCC. This is the passive adjustment of SCC driven by
sediment concentration. In addition, the positive adjustment will lead the dynamics to be
more complex, and induce the so-called diversion-sedimentation effect, which means that
water diversion can cause sedimentation or cause sedimentation quantity to get more (see
Fig. 3 (a)). So one can say it is that the positive and passive adjustments of SCC together
determine the dynamic behaviour of the 21st segment and those below it even if for the case
of κ > κ c , κ < λ . In this case, the injecting stream of the 21st segment also has a higher
SCC. It is partly shown by Fig. 3 (b), and differs sharply from the other segments in the
values of A0. It follows that the 21st segment will respond intensely to the change caused
by diversion.

Fig. 2. The relation between WDR and SDR

(a) (b)
Fig. 3. Influence of the WDR, κ , on the dynamics of sediment transport: (a) the QES, ΔS ;
(b) the positive part of SCC, A0
As shown in Fig. 3 (a), there is an another critical value of κ , κ c' , for each of the segments
below the diversion mouth (the values of κ c' of the 21st segment, the 22nd segment, …, is
Sediment Transport Dynamics in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 167

0.216, 0.186, …, respectively) at which the sedimentation quantity on the segments reach the
maxima. The maximum indicates that sedimentation will get less with the increase of κ as it
is beyond κ c' , so one can infer that there is the third critical value of κ at which the state of
the segments will transform from sedimentation to erosion. It is very interesting that this
transform may take place in the segments in turn in the upstream direction. It is noticeable
that the maximum of the sedimentation quantity on the segments decreases in downstream
direction, and proves that the sedimentation mainly occurs on the segments below and near
to the diversion mouth. This behaviour can be attributed to the strong response of the SCC
of the 21st segment to the diversion.
To test the aforementioned calculation and get more understandings to the dynamics, we
give the QES on the 21st segment obtained analytically. As a matter of convenience, on the
21st segment the increment of the QES, from time step t to time step t + 1 , is taken into
account, that is,

δΔS0 (21, t + 1) = ΔS0 (21, t + 1) − ΔS0 (21, t ) . (11)

This equation can be easily expressed as

δΔS0 (21, t + 1) = (uκ 0.2 − v(1 − κ )0.1 )Δκ − k1ΔS0 (21, t ) + k2 ΔS0 (20, t ) . (12)

Where u = 9.6Q0−0.2 (20, t+1)q0 (20, t+1) , v = 1.1q00.7 (20, t+1)Q00.4 (20, t+1) A0 (21, t ) and Δκ is the
increment of κ in any two neighboring time steps and is assigned a value, 0.0005. As the
parameters and variables take the above values and Q1 (i , t ) = 295.0 , the comparison
between the result obtained analytically and that obtained numerically is shown in Fig.4,
and indicates that the result calculated analytically is, on the whole, in agreement with that
one obtained numerically. One may note that the value of δΔS0 (21, t + 1) changes from the
negative to the positive with the increase of κ . This signifies that the sedimentation
quantity on the 21st segment firstly gets more and then becomes less. The variation trends of
δΔS0 (21, t + 1) is mainly determined by two terms κ 0.2 and (1 − κ )0.1 in Equ. (12), which
shows that when κ takes a small value (1 − κ )0.1 takes a relative greater value. However,
with the increase of κ , κ 0.2 increases but (1 − κ )0.1 decreases. It is the reason why the value
of δΔS0 (21, t + 1) is firstly negative and then become positive, and also the reason why there
is the critical WDR, κ c' .

Fig. 4. Comparison of δΔS0 (21,6000) obtained analytically with that obtained numerically
168 Sediment Transport

(a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e)
Fig. 5. Variations of the QES and SCC on the mainstream segments that below the diversion
mouth. The details are presented in text. (a) the positive part of SCC, A0 ; (b) sediment
concentration, q0 ; (c) QES, ΔS0 ; (d) a partial magnification of (c) shows initial influence of
the steady diversion; (e) another partial magnification of (c) shows the instantaneous process
while the discharge of the first rank rivers evenly increase
Sediment Transport Dynamics in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 169

4. Complexity of the sediment transport dynamics induced by diversion

Since diversion will cause a drastic change of the state, which is described by SCC and QES,
of the segment below and near to the diversion mouth, the dynamics of the sediment
transport will become more complex. In order to facilitate discussion, we only consider the
confluence of the mainstream with the first rank branch rivers. These branch rivers are
characterized by Q1(i,t)=25.0 and q1(i,t)=30.0 also for simplicity. The other parameters and
variables are set as those in Fig. 3. The simulation is fallen into three phases. The first phase
(1-6000 time step) is confluence with fixed imports so as to avoid the unreasonable
transience and obtain reasonable SCC and QES for each segment. The second one (6001-
12000 time step) is diversion. It is conducted with the fixed WDR, κ = 0.1, so that we can
track the dynamics of the erosion-sedimentation state under steady diversion conditions.
After this, the third one runs with the increase of the discharge of each branch of rank 1, that
is, Q1 (i , t ) = 25.0 + ξ (t ) , ξ (t ) = (t − 12000)δ Q1 . Here δ Q1 = 0.0042 , it is the increment of the
discharge of the first rank rivers in a time step. In this phase, we mainly investigate the
variations of SCC and QES on the segments those below and near to the diversion mouth.
Fig. 5 shows these simulation phases, where (a) , (c) denotes the variation of SCC and QES,
respectively, in the process; (b) presents the sediment concentration before and after the
diversion; (d) is the local magnification of (c), and displays the great changes of the QES
caused by the diversion; (e) is also the partial magnification of (c), and demonstrates, in
detail, the variation of the QES when it goes to the third phase(the discharge of the main
stream and the diverted water increases due to the even increase of the first rank streams)
from the second one.

4.1 Sediment transport dynamics when a steady diversion is conducted

As shown by Fig.5 (a), the diversion (starts at the fore-end of time step 6001) strengthens the
SCC of the stream flowing on the 21st segment immediately. However, the SCC of the
stream running on the 22nd segment decreases with a time lag of one step in comparison
with the time at which the diversion starts. These changes are denoted by the inflection
points on the corresponding curves. Meanwhile, the inflow of the 21st segment decreases
suddenly due to the diversion, and as λ > κ , the sediment concentration of the inflow of the
21st segment also decreases suddenly (Fig.5 (b)). The decrease results in the decrease of the
sedimentation quantity on this segment (please see Fig.5 (c) and (d)). The decrease of the
sediment concentration of the stream flowing on the 21st segment lowers the driving action
on the SCC of the stream flowing on the 22nd segments. Therefore, sediment carried by the
inflow now gets lesser than that before the diversion is conducted, and then the
sedimentation quantity decreases. In time step 6002, the inflow of the 22nd segments
decreases since in this time step the outflow of the 21st segment becomes the inflow of the
22nd segment. The sediment carried by these inflow decreases greatly, so a great deal of
erosion occurs on this segment. In time step 6003, the stream flowing on this segment
becomes steady, it returns to a sedimentation state. The similar changes of the state take
place in the segments, 23rd, 24th, … in turn in the downriver direction. This likes a
propagation process in which the amplitude of the change gradually reduces in the
downriver direction, and indicates that the influence of the diversion on the segments below
the diversion mouth weakens in this direction. It is also demonstrated by Fig.5 (a) that the
SCC of the stream, from the 22nd segment to its downriver neighbors, goes down. Fig.5 (e)
170 Sediment Transport

also proves that our simulation is in qualitative accord with the field observation that
sedimentation is enhanced, especially on the segments near to the diversion mouth.
One may note if a steady diversion lasts for some time steps, an interesting distribution of
the QES will be established. By a careful investigation, we find, via magnifying the part of
Fig.5 (a) to which the arrowhead points in the inset, that the SCC of the stream flowing on
the 22nd segment decreases suddenly in time step 6003 and then increases gradually. The
SCC of the stream flowing on the 23rd segment decreases slightly in time step 6004. The SCC
of the stream of the rest nearly remains changeless. Correspondingly, the variation of
erosion-sedimentation state is demonstrated by Fig.5 (e). The monotonously ascending
curve means that sedimentation on the 21st segment gets lesser gradually. The sedimentation
on the 22nd segment firstly goes down and then goes up. This implies that there is a
maximum of the sedimentation quantity on this segment. The curves of QES for the rest of
the segments show different changes at first, whereas they tend to be the same of that on the
21st and 22nd segments. So one can infer that on all of the segments, the dynamics of sediment
transport is inclined to remove the difference of the QES on the segments, and reach a
common state, a so-called nearly erosion-sedimentation equilibrium (NESE) state, at which
the state is closed to that one of QES being equal to aero, and the channel keeps unchanged.
This is sharply different from that dynamics of sediment transport in river network without
diversion, and embodies the complexity of the dynamics caused by diversion.

Fig. 6. Scaling law of instantaneous sedimentation distribution on the segments that are
below the diversion mouth when they tend to the NESE state
While the dynamics approaches to the NESE, a scaling law that dominates the distribution
of the QES can be gradually established, which is described by an exponential function

ΔS0 (i − 21, t ) ∝ eτ ( i − 21) i > 21 (13)

The scaling function can be obtained by linear fitting in space ln ΔS(i − 21, t ) versus i − 21 ,
and shown by Fig.6 (presents the calculation at t = 20000 ). In fact, this scaling function is
suitable to the instantaneous distribution, and that the longer the diversion lasts for, the
better the distribution accords with an exponential function. The scaling behavior actually
embodies the characteristics of the self-adaption and the self-organization. The former refers
to the adjustment of the channel via changing the QES to adapt to the import, the latter
Sediment Transport Dynamics in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 171

drives at the feedback mechanism between the SCC of the stream and the state of the
channel. The former is usually an effect, while the latter is the cause why there exists the
result. It is just the feedback mechanism that the behavior shown in Fig.5 from time step
6001 to 6005 when both of the SCC and the QES respond intensely to the sudden change of
the imported water and sediment. The intense oscillation between erosion and
sedimentation (shown in Fig.5 (d)) denotes this response, the so-called rapid response (Huo,
et al., 2009).

4.2 Influence of the changing discharge on sediment transport dynamics

As shown in Fig.5 (with fixed WDR), the sudden change of the streams flowing on the first
rank branches interrupts the way to the NESE state, and therefore the scaling law expressed
by Equ.(13) is destroyed. Since time step 12001, the discharge of the inflow of each
mainstream segment increases due to the even increase of the discharge of the first rank
rivers. However, the discharge increase of the outflow of these mainstream segments is
postponed for one time step in comparison with that of the inflow. These cause the
sedimentation quantity on these segments to get more (Fig. 5 (e)). The detail of the response
of the QES on these mainstream segments to the discharge increase of the first rank branches
can help us to obtain more understandings to the dynamics. For each segment, there is a
special section of time series on the curve of ΔS0 near t = 12000. For a certain segment, it
corresponds to the changes resulted from the confluence of the first rank streams, one by
one, of which discharge have increased. When the first (top) branch of the first rank that has
its discharge increased injects this segment for the first time, the section ends up. The section
length of the 21st segment, the 22nd segment … prolongs for one time step in turn from above
to bellow. In the section, the discharge increment of the stream on a segment, for instance,
the 21st segment, in each one time step comes from the change of the discharge on the 20th
segment after diversion. This increment can be expressed as

δ Q(21, t + 1) = (1 − κ )δ Q(20, t ) = (1 − κ )(t − 12001)δ Q1 t = 12002,12003, ,12020 . (14)

Since time step 12021, the increment remains changeless. It follows that there is the
following relation,

δ Q(20, t + 1) = 19δ Q1 t>12020 . (15)

Obviously, the discharge increment of the stream on the 21st segment reaches the maximum in
time step 12020, and then the discharge increases evenly. This change may alter the variation
trend of the QES: the increase of sedimentation quantity becomes slower relatively.
One can see from the discussions above, water diversion will give rise to complexity of the
sediment transport dynamics, and can further infer a conclusion from this fact that the
dynamics will become more complex if a random fluctuation is introduced to mimic a
natural rainfall.
Interestedly, if the even increase of the discharge goes on long enough, the transition from
sedimentation increasing to sedimentation decreasing will occur in the segments below the
diversion mouth in turn from above to below, which indicates that there is an instantaneous
maximum of the sedimentation quantity, denoted by ΔS0 min , for each one of the segments.
Fig. 7 suggests the following scaling function:

ΔS0 min (i − 21) ∝ eγ ( i − 21) i > 21 . (16)

172 Sediment Transport

This scaling relation reflects the fact that a river network tends to constitute an order to
dominate the dynamics in the self-adaption process when the import varies regularly.

Fig. 7. Scaling law of the maximum sedimentation quantity on the segments that are below
the diversion mouth as the flux of water increases linearly

5. Conclusions and discussions

In this article, we suggest a dynamical model for sediment transport in river network to
study the characteristic of the dynamics induced by water diversion. The model is based on
the mechanisms that the SCC of a stream is adjusted by the QES and driven by the sediment
concentration of the injecting streams. The numerical results of this model can simulate the
dynamical behaviour in real networks: water diversion can cause sedimentation quantity to
increase. Some details of the dynamics may help us to understand the nature of river
networks and the sediment transport in them.
The transient dynamics shows some interesting characteristics. 1) There is a critical value of
WDR at which the state of the segments those are below the diversion mouth will transform
from sedimentation getting more to sedimentation getting lesser. 2) Water diversion will
cause the dynamics of sediment transport to be more complex. It will lead to the abrupt
change of the erosion-sedimentation state. On the segments that are below and near to the
diversion mouth sedimentation quantity will oscillate between increase and decrease. This is
the rapid response of the channel to the diversion. 3) After the rapid response, if the WDR is
fixed the oscillation extent will decay in the downriver direction. The sedimentation
quantity on each of the segments will exponentially decreases with time if the steady
diversion goes on. This may lead the dynamics to the NESE state near which a scaling law
that governs distribution of the QES is established. 4) There is a maximum quantity of
sedimentation on each of segments, which is dominated by a scaling law, that is, the
maximum quantity of sedimentation depends exponentially on the number of the segments.
The aforementioned results may give some enlightenment, especially from the scaling laws.
In a river network, the inputs may be random and complex, the outputs (after the transience
or in the transient process) may be, however, regular and simple. This dynamic behavior can
be attributed to the feedback between the input (stream) and internal factor (the state or the
pattern of channel) of the system, and may be common for a kind of completely open system
that is endued with self-organizing capacity by the feedback mechanism.
Sediment Transport Dynamics in River Networks Induced by Water Diversion 173

Of cause, these scaling laws can, generally, not observed in natural river networks since they
are destroyed by the large-amplitude random fluctuations in the stream. It follows that the
random fluctuation of the discharge caused by rainfalls may play an important role in
keeping a relative steadier conformation of the channel.

6. Acknowledgements
This study is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China under Grant
Nos. 10565002 and 10965004, by the Program for New Century Excellent Talents in
University of China under Grant No. NCET-06-0914, and by the Ningxia NSF under Grant
No. NZ0944.

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 9

Sediment Transport in
Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia
Chun Kiat, Chang and Aminuddin, Ab. Ghani
Universiti Sains Malaysia
Malaysia

1. Introduction
Rivers are dynamic by nature; they adjust their characteristics in response to any change in
the environment. These environmental changes may occur naturally, as in the case of
climatic variation or changes in vegetative cover, or may be a result of human activities.
Human factors influence channel changes, both directly by engineering projects including
channelization, dredging, snag removals, dam construction and bridge construction, and
indirectly through altering floodplain landuse such that erosion is more likely to occur
during flood events more likely to occur during flood events (Ab. Ghani et al., 2010). These
changes to river hydrology and sedimentation will in turn modify the channel morphology,
which include changes to channel cross section, stability and capacity. Otherwise, hazard
flood increases with the sedimentation and damages exceeded with muddy water.
Consequently, it is necessary to study river channel behaviour and evaluate the river
channel stability for its natural state and response to human modification due to the existing
and future developments.

2. Study site
Kulim River catchment (Figure 1) is located in the southern part of the state of Kedah and in
the northwestern corner of Peninsular Malaysia. Kulim River is a natural stream in Kedah
state, Malaysia. Kulim River drains 130 km2 of the surface area of southern part of the state
of Kedah, is in the northwestern corner of Peninsular Malaysia. Kulim River emanates from
the western slopes on Gunung Bangsu Range and flows in a north-westerly direction. The
river slopes are steep and channel elevations drop from 500 meter to 20 meter above mean
sea level (AMSL) over a distance of 9 kilometer. The central area of the catchment is
undulating with elevation ranging from 100 meter down to 18 meter above mean sea level.
The study area has a tropical climate influenced by the movement of Inter-Tropical
Convergence Zone. Its passage over the area results in two wet periods during the year
which occur from April to May and from September to November. There is a transitional
period of moderate rainfall during June to August and dry during December to March.
Rainfall is generally convective and increase from around 2000 mm a year at the
downstream to over 3200 mm a year on the mountainous area.
The Kulim River has experienced severe environmental damages, mostly related to
significant erosion and sedimentation. Anthropogenic activities and natural events cause
176 Sediment Transport

changes in river morphology and stability of Kulim River. The human activity include the
development to the year 2010 of Kulim district based on the Kulim Structure Plan, 1990-2010
(MDK, 1993), rapid urbanization at Kulim River catchment especially construction for
housing state, the on-going 145 km2 Malaysia's first and fully integrated Kulim Hi-Tech
Industrial Park and river sand mining activities which may maximize the disturbance to river
equilibrium and environment. Frequent flood occurrences in Kulim River catchment have
significantly affected the community because of extensive damage in built up and agriculture
areas especially the flood event in October 2003, which is an event slightly lower than the 100-
year ARI based on the frequency analysis. Finally, these changes to the river hydrology and
sedimentation will in turn alter the channel morphology, which can include changes to
channel cross section, stability and capacity (Chang et al., 2005). The study reach covers about
14.4 km of Kulim River, from the upstream (CH 14390) to the state boundary between Kedah
and Penang (CH 1900) and further downstream at the Ara Kuda gauging station (CH 0).

Pennisular
Malaysia

Fig. 1. Delineated Kulim River Catchment and Study Reach

3. Flood frequency analysis

The Kulim River benefited from 46-year period (1960–2005) of daily discharge
measurements at Ara Kuda streamflow station, which include two major floods have
occurred in 2001 and 2003 within the period. The annual peak discharges ranked in Table 1
indicate that the ten largest floods have been measured since 1961. This can be considered
that the discharge of 92.90 m3/s measured in 5 October 2003 is the highest during that
period of record.
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 177

Rank Discharge, Q (m3/s) Year Date

1 92.90 2003 05-Oct
2 89.90 2001 22-Jan
3 67.90 1998 16-Nov
4 65.00 2000 22-Sep
5 62.30 1963 13-Nov
6 61.20 1999 05-Sep
7 58.50 2004 23-Sep
8 57.90 1962 21-Oct
9 56.90 1964 26-Sep
10 55.10 1987 09-Nov
Table 1. Flood Ranking for Kulim River at Ara Kuda
A flood frequency analysis was carried out for the 42-year period of streamflow data using
Gumbel Extremal Type I. It was found that the result shows the better agreement to the
measured streamflow data (Figure 2). The flood frequency analysis provided by the present
study is also given in Table 2. It is therefore concluded that the 2003 flood discharge of 92.90
m3/s is slightly lower than the 100-year peak discharge.

Fig. 2. Flood Frequency Analyses Using Gumbel Extremal Type I Distribution

Return Period Discharge (m3/s)

200 102.27
100 94.08
50 85.86
25 77.58
10 66.42
5 57.59
3 50.58
2 44.25
Table 2. Summary of Flood Frequency Analyses using Gumbel Extremal Type I
178 Sediment Transport

4. Sediment data collection and analysis

4.1 Field measurement
River surveys, flow measurement and field data collection provide the basic physical
information such as sediment characteristics, discharge, water surface slope; which is needed
for the planning and design of river engineering. In addition to the data needed for sediment
transport studies, use of a sediment transport model also requires field data such as channel
configuration before and after the changes, a flow record and sediment characteristics, which
are generally used for test and calibration of a model. Field measurements were obtained at
the selected cross sections (CH 14390 and CH 3014) from October 2004 to November 2006
along Kulim River by using Hydrological Procedure (DID, 1976; DID, 1977) and recent
manuals (Yuqian, 1989; USACE, 1995; Edwards & Glysson, 1999; Lagasse et al., 2001;
Richardson et al., 2001). The data collection includes flow discharge (Q), suspended load (Ts),
bed load (Tb) and water surface slope (So). The water-surface slopes of the study reaches were
determined by taking measurements of water levels over a distance of 200 m where the cross
section was located (FISRWG, 2001). Besides that, bed elevation, water surface and thalweg
(the minimum bed elevation for a cross section) measurement were also carried out at the
selected cross sections. Details and examples of the measurement methodology for rivers in
Malaysia can be found in Ab. Ghani et al. (2003) and DID (2009).
In this study, the water-surface slopes were found to be mild, where the average slope, So
for CH 14390 and CH 3014 is 0.001 m/m. Bed material samples were also collected at the
selected cross sections including bank samples. This data were analyzed to determine the
distributions of the mean sediment size or d50 and used to characterize the physical
characteristics of the sediment responsible for sediment transport, which determines the
river response in terms of erosion and deposition. Low sediment transport rate for Kulim
River occurred during the field measurements. The mean sediment sizes show that Kulim
River is sand-bed streams where d50 ranges from 1.00 to 2.40 mm.
A summary with ranges for hydraulics and sediment data collection is shown in Table 3
(Chang et al., 2008). The surveyed cross sections for the Kulim River show that it is a single

Study Site CH 14390 CH 3014

No. of Sample 10 12
Discharge, Q (m3/s) 0.73 – 3.14 3.73 - 9.98
Bankfull width, TW (m) 25.0 50.0
Water surface width, B (m) 9.0 - 13.0 13.0 - 19.0
Flow depth, yo (m) 0.20 - 0.54 0.36 - 0.58
Hydraulic radius, R (m) 0.23 - 0.57 0.40 - 0.63
Water surface slope, So 0.001 0.001
Mean sediment size, d50 (mm) 1.00 – 2.40 1.10 - 2.00
Manning n 0.029 - 0.072 0.024 - 0.037
B/yo 23.4 - 44.8 26.0 - 52.5
yo/d50 126.9 - 369.01 240.0 - 550.9
R/d50 141.4 - 406.6 266.5 - 570.9
Bed load, Tb (kg/s) 0.06 - 0.33 0.11 - 0.36
Suspended load, Ts (kg/s) 0.02 - 0.27 0.03 - 1.21
Total load, Tj (kg/s) 0.09 - 0.56 0.27 - 1.35
Table 3. Range of Field Data for Kulim River Catchment (Chang et al., 2008)
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 179

10

Total Bed Material Load, Tj (Kg/s)

CH 14390
CH 3014
1

Tj = 0.171Q0.82
R2 = 0.87
0.1

0.01
0.1 1 10 100

Discharge, Q (m 3/s)

Fig. 3. Sediment Rating Curve along Kulim River

thread channel with the bankfull width ranging between 25 and 50 m, and aspect ratio
(B/yo) was between 23 and 53 indicating that it is a moderate-size channel. The total bed
material load (Tj) is composed of the suspended load and bed load, representing the ability
of the river to replenish the sediment and it must be specified for sediment transport, scour
and deposition analysis. The measured total bed material load rating curves for these two
sites at the Kulim River are illustrated in Figure 3. A mild curve is obtained for Kulim River
indicating that a longer time is required for the replenishment before it is viable for sand
extraction purpose. Therefore it is recommended that deposition should be allowed to occur
first after a major flood before any river sand mining activity is allowed between these two
sites. Based on the Table 1 and Figure 3, it is estimated that the 2003 flood with a discharge
of 93 m3/s will transport 7 kg/s of sand during the flood.

4.2 Channel morphology

Water and sediment transport through the Kulim River increase with time due to the
reduction of river capacity that resulted from reclamation and sedimentation along the river.
River bank erosion, river bed degradation, river buffer zone encroachment and deterioration
of river water quality cause a serious and regular hazard in urban settlements at Kulim
town. The powerful water currents wear away at the edges of these settlements during the
wet periods and sometimes entire settlements established near the bank are washed away.
Figure 4 shows the channel planform modification along Kulim River due to an event
slightly lower than the 100-year ARI flood during October 2003 at two urbanized areas of
Kulim town and its surrounding areas. The main and most urbanized area of Kulim River
pass the Kulim town and its surrounding. The channel widening can be observed in many
locations along the Kulim River such as CH 10000, CH 12000 and CH 13500. The
depositional areas are mainly located at the outer banks of meanders, while the erosion
areas are at the opposite banks. These changes in channel river planform may cause
extensive damages and inconvenience to the community (Sirdari, 2009).
Field measurements results including bed elevation, thalweg and water surface were carried
out at several cross sections were compared to the river survey geometry data in September
1991. However, the comparison between cross sections provided by Department of
Irrigation and Drainage (DID) and field measurement after October 2003 flood shows that
there has been a change in cross section. The channel bed profile has gradually reduced
180 Sediment Transport

(a) CH 9000 – CH 11000 (b) CH 13000 – CH 14000

Fig. 4. Channel Planform of Kulim River (Sirdari, 2009)
within 13 years period, which proves that channel degradation occurred at most cross sections
at Kulim River after the flood event (Chang et al., 2005). Thalweg at the CH 14390 has changed
from 24.58 m to 23.50 ± 0.5 m and thalweg at the CH 3014 has changed from 8.38 m to 6.45 ±
0.5 m (Figure 5). From these results of cross section changes, it’s shown that steep slope in
Kulim River has induced higher discharge, and it was associated with the spatial variation in
sediment transport and sediment size. The changes in river bed profile may be attributed to
the erosion or deposition along the banks or the channel width. As a result, the study of
changes in channel-bed profile, width variation and changes in bed topography, bank erosion,
changes in channel degradation and aggradation, changes in channel curvature and river
meandering were also carried out using sediment transport model.

30 15

02.11.2004 08.12.2004
14
29 03.09.1991
21.09.1991
13
28
12
Elevation, RL (m)
Elevation, RL (m)

27
11

26 10

9
25

8
24
7

23
6

22 5
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 0 10 20 30 40 50 60

Width (m) Width (m)

(a) CH 14390 (b) CH 3014

Fig. 5. Cross Section Changes
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 181

4.3 Sediment transport equation assessment

The analysis for a total of 22 sets of data based on averaged size of sediment (d50) have been
obtained for nine sediment transport equations including five bed load equations namely
Einstein bed load function (Einstein, 1942, 1950), Einstein-Brown’s equation (Brown, 1950),
Meyer-Peter-Muller’s equation (1948), Shields’ equation (1936), Duboys’ equation (1879) and
four total load equations namely Yang’s equation (1972), Engelund-Hansen’s equation
(1967), Ackers-White’s equation (1973) and Graf’s equation (1971). The performances of the
equations were measured using the discrepancy ratio (DR), which is the ratio of the
predicted load to measured load (DR=predicted/measured). In this study, a discrepancy
ratio of 0.5 to 2.0 (DR = 0.5-2.0) was used as a criterion in the evaluation of the selected
equations. However, the evaluation of these equations shows that all the existing equations,
in most cases, over-predicted the measured values, as shown in Table 4. The result shows
that Engelund & Hansen equations gives better prediction of measured data and yielded the
highest percentage of data sets within discrepancy ratio of 0.5 to 2.0 at CH 14390 (50 %) and
CH 3014 (41.67 %). The analysis also shows that all of the bed load equations gave
unsatisfactory performance to predict the sediment load compared to total load equations.

CH 14390 CH 3014
Total of Data Total of Data
Sediment Transport Equations Total of Total
Falls within Falls within
Data of Data
0.5-2.0 0.5-2.0
Einstein Bed Load Function (1942,
0 0
1950)
Einstein-Brown Equation (1950) 0 0
Meyer-Peter-Müller Equation
0 0
(1948)
Shields Equation (1936) 12 0 10 0
Duboys’ equation (1879) 0 0
Yang’s equation (1972) 3 5
Engelund-Hansen equation (1967) 6 5
Ackers-White’s equation (1973) 0 1
Graf equation (1971) 4 2
Table 4. Summary of Sediment Transport Assessment (Chang, 2006b; Ab. Ghani et al., 2007)

5. Sediment transport modeling

5.1 Software used
Studies of sediment transport, scour and fill, aggradation and deposition analyses can be
performed by computer model simulation. The rapid pace of computer technology has been
a milestone for mathematical models in sediment transport. As a result, the high demand on
the models resulted in development of many models and the selection of the right model
under certain constraints requires a comprehensive knowledge of the capabilities and
features of available models. Recently, wide acceptance of a community sediment transport
model would make the model a more effective tool for research, planning and design of
river engineering, therefore numerous sediment models are available in the study of
hydraulic and sediment transport modeling.
182 Sediment Transport

The review of capabilities and performance of sediment transport models has been
discussed by the National Research Council (1983), Fan (1988), American Society of Civil
Engineers Task Committee on Hydraulics, Bank Mechanics, and Modeling of River Width
Adjustment (ASCE, 1998), Federal Interagency Stream Restoration Working Group
(FISRWG, 2001) and Department of Water Resources, Resource Agency State of California
(DWR, 2004). In addition, applications of the several commonly used sediment transport
models have been described by Ab. Ghani et al. (2003) and Chang (2006b). These
applications illustrate various capabilities of different models and each sediment transport
model has its own limitations. The selection of the right model under certain constraints
requires a comprehensive knowledge of the capabilities and features of available models.
The sediment transport model, FLUVIAL-12 (Chang 1982, 1984, 1988), which was first
developed in 1972, has been selected for the Kulim River study. FLUVIAL-12 is developed
for water and sediment routing in natural and man-made channels. The combined effects of
flow hydraulics, sediment transport and river geomorphic changes are simulated for a given
flow period. FLUVIAL-12 model is an erodible-boundary model that includes the width
adjustment component, which simulates inter-related changes in channel-bed profile, width
variation and changes in bed topography induced by the channel curvature effect. Besides
that, bank erosion, changes in channel curvature and river meandering can also be modeled
(Chang, 2006a).
The applicability of the FLUVIAL-12 model for the river channel responses under its
existing conditions and proposed conditions in response to human intervention and the
environmental impacts has confirmed by Chang et al. (2002), where FLUVIAL-12
simulations were made based on a 100-year flood as well as a long-term flood series. Besides
that, several case studies of FLUVIAL-12 model applications as discussed by Chang (2006b)
and Chang et al. (2008) also showed that FLUVIAL-12 was capable to predict river changes
caused by nature and human activities, including general scour at bridge crossings,
sediment delivery, channel responses to sand and gravel mining and channelization.
Sediment delivery is defined as the cumulative amount of sediment that has been delivered
passing a certain channel section for a specified period of time (Chang, 2006a).

5.2 Model input and output

The study reach covers approximately 14.5 km of Kulim River, from the upstream (CH
14390) to the Ara Kuda streamflow station (CH 0). The inputs to the FLUVIAL-12 model are
described in detail in FLUVIAL-12 Users Manual (Chang, 2006a).
The geometry data consists of existing survey cross-sections in September 1991 between CH
1900 to CH 14390 at the upstream of Kulim River. However, the survey of CH 0 cross section
in December 1995 was provided by DID Hydrology Division for the FLUVIAL-12 modeling
requirement. In this study, a total of 120 existing survey cross sections were selected along
the study reach to define the channel geometry as the input for FLUVIAL-12 model.
FLUVIAL-12 has been used to simulate the channel geometry, lateral and vertical elevation
changes for the flood events from 1991 to 2006.
The input hydrograph at Ara Kuda for year 1991 (Figure 6) was used for model sensitivity
analysis whilst model calibration and validation was using the hydrograph from year 1991
to June 2006 (Figure 7). The rating curve which is used to define discharge variation of stage
(water surface elevation) for the downstream boundary condition is shown in Figure 8; the
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 183

Fig. 6. Input Hydrograph for Year 1991

Fig. 7. Input Hydrograph for Year 1991 to June 1993, 1997 to June 2006

Fig. 8. Flood Rating Curve at Ara Kuda (CH 0)

184 Sediment Transport

shifts in stagedischarge relationships reflect the variability at Ara Kuda streamflow station
derived from the past 12-year rating curve for Kulim River. The geometric mean of the bed
material size fractions is adequately described from the sediment size distribution. Two
sediment size distributions of such samples based on sieve analysis are required at the
upstream (d50 = 1.50 mm) and downstream (d50 = 0.75 mm) cross sections to specify initial
bed material compositions in the river bed (Figure 9). These input data, can be grouped into
the categories of geometry, sediment and hydrology. A summary of the input and output
parameter for each category is shown in Table 5.

(a) Upstream (CH 14390) (b) Downstream (CH 3014)

Fig. 9. Initial Bed Material Size Distributions

Category Category Parameter Value Source

Input Geometry Cross section per section CH 1900 – CH 14390 (DID 1991
Parameter (Total of cross sections = Survey)
120) CH 0 (DID 1995 Survey)
Reach lengths per section 1991 (DID 1991 Survey)
(Total length = 14.4km)
Roughness Same by cross section Values static at all levels of flow.
coefficient (n = 0.020, 0.025, 0.030,
0.035, 0.040 were
evaluated during the
sensitivity analysis)
Radius of per section 1991 (DID 1991 Survey)
curvature
Sediment Sediment 2 sediment size Data sampling at CH 14390 (Year
samples distributions of such 2006) and CH 0 (Year 2004)
samples are required
(upstream and
downstream section)
Regular non- Generally fix at left and DID 1991 Survey
erodible bank right bank, varies by cross
section
Sediment Seven sediment transport Graf’s sediment formula (1971)
transport formulas were evaluated Yang’s unit stream power
formula during the sensitivity formula (1972)
analysis Engelund-Hansen sediment
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 185

formula (1967)
Parker gravel formula (1982)
Ackers-White sediment formula
(1973)
Meyer-Peter Muller formula
(1948)
Singer-Dunne formula (2004)
Specific Gravity 2.65 Default (Soulsby, 1997)
Hydrology Discharge Varies by hydrograph Historical hydrograph for Kulim
hydrograph River at Ara Kuda streamflow
station
Design Hydrograph from past
study (DID, 1996)
Rating Curve Year 1991 to Developed by DID Hydrology
Year 2002 Division
Output Geometry Width Changes over time in
parameter Depth water surface, bed
Cross-sectional elevation and thalweg
area profiles. Simulation of
Slope curvature induced
aggradation and
deposition.
Sediment Mean sediment Changes over time in
size (d50) sediment transport,
Bed material channel scour and fill,
size fractions aggradation and
degradation
Sediment Sediment delivery or the
concentration total bed material yield
Sediment yield during the study period
Hydraulic Water surface Simulated water surface
based on input
hydrograph
Mean velocity Flow data sets for
Froude number representative cross
sections in the study
reach

Table 5. Summary of Input and Output Parameter for FLUVIAL-12 in Present Study (Chang
et al., 2008)

5.3 Sensitivity analysis

An analysis was conducted to evaluate the sensitivity of the modelling results to changes in
input parameters. To determine the sensitivity of FLUVIAL-12, which including flow,
sediment transport and the channel geomorphic changes caused by the variation of each
parameter, different values of the parameter were used in simulation runs and the results
obtained are compared. Sensitivity analysis is an important step to be taken for more
effective use of a model. Major items that required sensitivity test include roughness
coefficient, sediment transport equations, channel curvature and number of cross section
(reach length between two sections). This sensitivity analysis was carried out using the
186 Sediment Transport

existing survey cross section and hydrograph for the year of 1991. However, the accuracy of
the model is limited to the quality and quantity of the input data. Therefore, using available
hydraulic and hydrology data including cross section spacing will affect the quality of the
output data. Besides that, selection of the sediment transport formula and model calibration
for roughness coefficient are also essential. Table 6 shows the summary of the sensitivity
analysis for Sungai Kulim using FLUVIAL-12.

Parameter Values Tested Comments

Started out with values recommended in the
0.020. Some values were then changed.
Roughness Coefficient Range: 0.020 – 0.050
Water Surface is increasing when roughness
coefficient increasing.
All equations were tested due to field
Sediment Transport 7 sediment observation. Selection of the proper and
Equation transport equations applicable sediment transport formula is
essential.
Simulation of curvature induced
Zero curvature and
Channel Curvature aggradation and deposition in the model
curvature
based on the flow curvature.
Shortened distance between cross section or
Number of Cross closely spaced along a reach produce more
120, 62 and 32
Sections accuracy result in channel geometry
changes.
Table 6. Summary of Sensitivity Analysis

5.4 Model calibration and validation

The simulation of the FLUVIAL-12 was obtained using 1991 cross section survey and
hydrograph. Based on measured water levels, predictions using both roughness coefficients
are close to the observed data during low flow. However, as the field data was not available
from year 1991 to 2003, a long-term simulation has been carried out to calibrate and validate
the model based on the recent measured water level and bed level data that were obtained
from 2004 to 2006. Therefore, the calibration of the roughness coefficient using measured
water level and bed level in November 2004 is done. As a part of the calibration procedure,
the model was run for 12-year period between 1991 to 1992 and 1997 to 2006.
The results of the model simulation during the calibration period agree very well (Table 7
and Figure 10), and it can be concluded that prediction using roughness coefficient n = 0.030
and Engelund-Hansen formula were in good agreement with measured water levels and
bed profiles and used for model validation. As a part of validation, measured water levels
and bed profiles, during September 1991, January 2005 and March 2006 was compared to
the predicted water levels and bed profiles by FLUVIAL-12 (Table 8). Longterm simulations
including of the historical flood events showed very good results for both calibration and
validation. Good agreements were obtained for both water level and bed levels between the
measured and predicted by FLUVIAL-12 model.
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 187

Water Level (m) Thalweg Level (m)

Roughness
Engelund-Hansen Engelund-Hansen
coefficient Location Yang fomula Yang fomula
Measured fomula Measured fomula
n
Predicted Difference Predicted Difference Predicted Difference Predicted Difference
CH 0 7.45 7.80 +0.35 7.80 +0.35 5.05 5.34 +0.29 5.29 +0.24
CH 3014 8.61 8.14 -0.47 8.13 -0.48 6.66 6.79 +0.13 6.96 +0.30
0.025
CH 8185 13.55 12.47 -1.08 13.67 +0.12 12.27 11.68 -0.59 12.85 +0.58
CH
25.61 26.00 +0.39 25.99 +0.38 23.45 24.58 +1.13 24.58 +1.13
14390
CH 0 7.45 7.80 +0.35 7.82 +0.37 5.05 5.40 +0.35 5.27 +0.22
CH 3014 8.61 8.36 -0.25 8.29 -0.32 6.66 6.57 -0.09 6.69 +0.03
0.030
CH 8185 13.55 13.00 -0.55 13.36 -0.19 12.27 11.87 -0.40 12.16 -0.11
CH
25.61 26.17 +0.56 26.14 -0.53 23.45 24.58 +1.13 24.58 0.00
14390
CH 0 7.45 7.80 +0.35 7.93 +0.48 5.05 5.33 +0.28 5.26 +0.21
CH 3014 8.61 8.59 +0.02 8.52 -0.09 6.66 7.30 +0.64 7.53 +0.87
0.035
CH 8185 13.55 13.55 0.00 13.45 -0.10 12.27 12.26 -0.01 12.31 +0.04
CH
25.61 26.20 +0.59 26.29 +0.68 22.85 24.58 +1.73 24.58 +1.73
14390

Table 7. Comparison of Simulated Water Level and Bed Profile with Measured Data during
2 Nov 2004 for Roughness Coefficient n = 0.025, 0.030 and 0.035 (Chang et al., 2008)

30 30
Initial Bed (1991) Initial Bed (1991)
25 Water Surface (E-H, n = 0.025)
25 Water Surface (E-H, n = 0.030)
Bed Profile (E-H, n = 0.025)
Bed Profile(E-H, n = 0.030)
20 Measured Water Level (2 Nov 2004)
20 Measured Water Level (2 Nov 2004)
Elevation (m)

Elevation (m)

Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004)

Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004)
15 15

10 10

5 5

0 0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m) Chainage (m)

30 30
Initial Bed( 1991) Initial Bed (1991)
25 Water Surface (E-H, n = 0.035) 25 Water Surface (Yang, n = 0.025)
Bed Profile (E-H, n = 0.035) Bed Profile (Yang, n = 0.025)
20 Measured Water Level (2 Nov 2004) 20 Measured Water Level (2 Nov 2004)
Elevation (m)

Elevation (m)

Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004) Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004)
15 15

10 10

5 5

0 0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m) Chainage (m)

30 30
Initial Bed (1991)
Initial Bed (1991)
25 Water Surface (Yang, n = 0.030)
25 Water Surface (Yang, n = 0.035)
Bed Profile (Yang, n = 0.030)
Bed Profile (Yang, n = 0.035)
20 Measured Water Level (2 Nov 2004)
Elevation (m)

20 Measured Water Level (2 Nov 2004)

Elevation (m)

Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004)

Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004)
15 15

10 10

5 5

0 0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m) Chainage (m)

Fig. 10. Comparison of Water Level and Bed Profile for Roughness Coefficient n = 0.025,
0.030 and 0.035 (2 Nov 2004)
188 Sediment Transport

Water Level (m) Thalweg Level (m)

Date Location
Measured Predicted Difference Measured Predicted Difference

CH 0 6.40 6.00 -0.40 5.05 5.34 +0.29

CH 10195 18.25 18.07 -0.18 6.66 6.79 +0.13

20 September 1991 CH 10438 18.53 18.39 -0.14 12.27 11.68 -0.59

CH 14091 24.84 24.67 -0.17 23.45 24.58 +1.13

CH 14206 24.86 24.80 -0.06 N/A N/A N/A

CH 0 6.10 6.09 -0.01 5.20 5.26 +0.06

CH 10195 7.03 7.19 +0.16 6.50 6.59 +0.09

11 January 2005
CH 10438 17.32 17.14 -0.18 16.81 16.91 +0.10

CH 14091 24.52 25.09 +0.57 23.42 24.58 +1.16

CH 0 5.90 5.96 +0.06 5.20 5.27 +0.07

CH 10195 7.38 7.05 -0.33 6.48 6.46 -0.02

8 March 2006
CH 10438 24.36 24.99 +0.63 24.04 24.58 +0.54

CH 14390 25.61 26.20 +0.59 22.85 24.58 +1.73

Table 8. Comparison of Simulated Water Level and Bed Profile with Measured Data

5.5 Model simulation

Engelund-Hansen formula and roughness coefficient n = 0.030 were found to be the best
combination to represent the sediment transport activity in the study reach throughout the
model calibration and validation. The sediment transport modeling was conducted based on
three scenarios. These include the existing condition modeling using October 2003 flood
hydrograph, future condition modeling by using the design flood hydrograph for the Kulim
River based on 2010 landuse (DID, 1996) and long-term modeling by relicensing the time
frame using hydrograph for year 1991-1992 and 1997-2006 to predict future ongoing changes
for the next 10 years.
The peak discharge of 92.90 m3/s measured on 5 October 2003, which was the highest
discharge measured in a 42-year period since 1960 is adopted as the design peak discharge
for existing condition. Consequently, sediment transport modeling was carried out for this
flood event (3 to 19 October 2003) as shown in Figure 11. Spatial variations of the sediment
delivery during the October 2003 flood are shown in Figure 12. Sediment delivery generally
decreased towards downstream especially near to the river sand mining site at CH 5064.
This pattern indicated that erosion occurred at upstream and more sediment deposited at
downstream of Kulim River.
Peak water surface and changes of the channel geometry due to scour and fill were depicted
by the simulated changes in channel bed profile as illustrated in Figure 13. From the
simulation results, flood level was higher at the downstream compare to the upstream of
Kulim River. Whilst, the results also show that scour of the bed occurred at upstream and
the cross sections near to the sand mining area (CH 5064) were subjected to greater changes
than other cross sections. Commonly, channel degradation was predicted at most cross
sections at Kulim River after the flood event.
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 189

Figure 14 shows the sediment transport rates at peak discharge during 2003 flood along the
river. Figure 15 shows the example of cross section changes for several locations along
Kulim River. In general, the river is stable at most locations after October 2003 flood with
the exception of CH 5306 and CH 12490 where lateral migration is predicted at these two
locations.

100

90 5 October (1am)
Q = 92.90 m3/s
80

70
Discharge, Q(m3/s)

60
19 October (10pm)
50 Q = 7.50 m3/s

40

30

20

10 3 October (9am)
Q = 8.80 m3/s
0
80320 80370 80420 80470 80520 80570 80620 80670 80720 80770 80820 80870 80920 80970 81020
Time (Hour)

Fig. 11. Hydrograph of the October 2003 Flood at Ara Kuda (CH 0)

40000 Peak After Flood

Sediment Delivery (tons)

30000

20000

10000

0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m)

Fig. 12. Spatial Variations of the Sediment Delivery during the October 2003 Flood
190 Sediment Transport

Fig. 13. Prediction of Water surface and Bed Profile Changes during October 2003 Flood

700
Total Bed Material Load, Tj (Kg/s)

600

500

400

300

200

100

0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m)

Fig. 14. Sediment Transport Rate at Peak during October 2003 Flood
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 191

15
26
14
25
13
24 12
11

Level (m)
23
10
Level (m)

22
9
21 8
7 CH 5306
20 CH 12490
6
19
5
18 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 Distance (m)
Distance (m)

Initial Bed Level (Year 1991) Bed Level (Peak) Water Level (Peak) Bed Level (After Flood) Initial Bed Level (Year 1991) Bed Level (Peak) Water Level (Peak) Bed Level (After Flood)

15 11

14 10
13
9
12

Level (m)
11 8
Level (m)

10 7
9
6
8 CH 0
CH 3014 5
7
6 4
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
5
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 Distance (m)
Distance (m)
Initial Bed Level (Year 1991) Bed Level (Peak) Initial Bed Level (Year 1991) Bed Level (Peak) Water Level (Peak)
Water Level (Peak) Bed Level (After Flood)
Measured Bed Level (2 Nov 2004) Bed Level (After Flood) Measured Bed Level (8 Dec 2004)

Fig. 15. Modeled Cross Section Changes before and after October 2003 Flood
The design flood hydrograph for the Kulim River based on 2010 landuse (DID, 1996) is
shown in Figure 16. The critical peak flow of the event is 306.6 m3/s (18-hour rainfall
duration). Simulated peak water surface and channel bed changes for Kulim River based on
design hydrograph are shown in Figure 17. The cross sections especially near to the sand
mining area and few cross sections especially CH 10000 to CH 14390 were subjected to
greater changes than other cross sections. In spite of this, channel degradation was predicted
at most cross sections after the peak. Figure 18 shows the cross section changes for two
selected locations along Kulim River.

350

300 306.6 m3/s

250
Discharge (m3/s)

200

150

100

50

0
0 4 8 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60 64 68 72 76 80 84

Time (hour)

Fig. 16. Design Hydrograph for 2010 Landuse (DID, 1996)

192 Sediment Transport

Fig. 17. Water Surface and Bed Profile Changes based on Design Hydrograph

28 15
14
26
13
24 12
Level (m)

Level (m)

11
22
10

20 9
8
18
CH 12490
7 CH 3014
6
16
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 5
Distance (m) 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Distance (m)
Bed Level (Before Flood) Bed Level (Peak) Water Surface (Peak) Bed Level (After Flood) Bed Level (Before Flood) Bed Level (Peak) Water Level (Peak) Bed Level (After Flood)

Fig. 18. Modeled Cross Section Changes before and after Design Flood
FLUVIAL-12 model was run to predict the channel geometry changes and sediment delivery
for the next 10 years. Future changes for the next 10 years were simulated by using
hydrograph as shown in Figure 7, which consists of 50-year ARI and 100-year ARI flood
events. Sediment delivery or the amounts of sediment moving past each cross section
predicted for the next 10 years (Year 2016) is shown in Figure 19. The simulation results show
that the amount of sediment delivery was twice for year 2016 compared to the year 2006, but
lesser sediment delivery at the downstream of Kulim River. The decreasing trend of sediment
delivery indicates long-term sediment deposition at the downstream of Kulim River.
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 193

Simulation for Kulim River based on the time series illustrated the changes of the channel
geometry as shown in Figure 20. The cross sections especially CH 10000 to CH 14000 are
subjected to change with sediment aggradation, whilst sediment deposition occur at CH
6000 to CH 10000. Figure 21 shows the spatial variations of the predicted median grain size
in year 2006 and 2016. The model run shows a large decrease in the sediment size at middle
reach of Kulim River between years 2006 to 2016; where the reach-mean sediment size

3000000

2500000 Year 2006 Year 2016

Sediment Delivery (tons)

2000000

1500000

1000000

500000

0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m)

Fig. 19. Spatial Variations of the Predicted Sediment Delivery

Fig. 20. Water Surface and Bed Profile Changes based on Design Hydrograph
194 Sediment Transport

1.5 Year 2006 Year 2016

1
d50 (mm)

0.5

0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000 10000 11000 12000 13000 14000
Chainage (m)

Fig. 21. Spatial Variations of the Predicted Median Grain Size for Year 2006 and 2016

26 15

25 14
13
24
12
23 11
Level (m)
Level (m)

22 10
9
21
8
20 CH 12490 7 CH 3014
19 6

18 5

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Distance (m)
Distance (m)

Initial Bed Level (Year 1991)) Predicted Bed Level (Year 2006) Predicted Bed Level (Year 2016) Initial Bed Level (Year 1991)) Predicted Bed Level (Year 2006) Predicted Bed Level (Year 2016)

Fig. 22. Predicted Cross Section Changes for Year 2006 and 2016
decrease from 0.77 mm to 0.58 mm. As the channel bed became finer, more sediment was
removed by erosion. Figure 22 shows the example of cross section changes for three
locations along Kulim River.
In general, it is found that Kulim River will be in equilibrium conditions with slight
degradation or erosion which deepen the river. The modeled results show that future
changes in cross sectional geometry will generally be limited and erosion along the reach
will be slowed down in the simulation period from 2006 to 2016. Thus, Kulim River was
predicted to be stable at most locations.

6. Conclusion
Flooding in Kulim River is found to affect channel geometry, cross sectional geometry,
sediment size and sediment delivery, which consists of scour and fill. Three scenarios was
evaluated for Kulim River; the model simulation results for existing conditions, future
conditions and long-term modeling show that the sediment size and channel geometry in
Kulim River changed significantly and the amount of sediment delivery trend decrease with
time indicates that long term sediment aggradation occurred at upstream and deposition
occurred at downstream of Kulim River. However, modeled results show that future
changes in cross sectional geometry will be limited and erosion along the reach will slow
down from 2006 to 2016. The results based on the water surface profile simulated from the
Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah, Malaysia 195

model should also be considered that the proposed bund level and bank protection should
stay above the predicted water surface to avoid overtopping and reduce the flooding
impact. The present study provides an estimate of sediment transport in moderate sandy
stream and serves as a reference for sediment transport modeling of sandy streams in
Malaysia and overseas.

7. References
Ab. Ghani, A., Ali, R., Zakaria, N.A., Abu Hasan, Z., Chang, C.K. & Ahamad, M.S.S. (2010).
A Temporal Change Study of the Muda River System over 22 Years. International
Journal of River Basin Management, IAHR & INBO. Vol. 8, No. 1, 25-37. ISSN: 1571-
5124.
Ab. Ghani, A., Zakaria, N.A., Abdullah, R., Chang, C.K., Sinnakaudan, S.K., Mohd Sidek, L.
(2003). Guidelines for Field Data Collection and Analysis of River Sediment.
Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur. 35 pp.
Ab. Ghani, A., Zakaria, N.A., Chang, C.K., Ariffin, J., Abu Hasan, Z., Abdul Ghaffar, A.B.
(2007). Revised Equations for Manning’s Coefficient for Sandbed Rivers.
International Journal of River Basin Management, Vol. 5, No. 4, 329-346. ISSN: 1571-
5124.
American Society of Civil Engineers or ASCE (1998). River width Adjustment II: Modeling,
by the ASCE Task Committee on Hydraulics, Bank Mechanics, and Modeling of
River Width Adjustment. Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, 124 (9), 903-917. ISSN:
0733-9429.
Chang, H.H. (1982). Mathematical Model for Erodible Channels. Journal of the Hydraulics
Division, 108 (HY5), 678-689. ISSN: 0733-9429.
Chang, H.H. (1984). Modeling of River Channel Changes. Journal of Hydraulic Engineering
110 (2), 265-267. ASCE157-172. Closure in 113(2), 1987. ISSN: 0733-9429.
Chang, H.H. (1988). Fluvial Processes in River Engineering. John Wiley and Sons, ISBN: 0-471-
63139-6, New York. 432pp.
Chang H. H., Pearson, D. & Tanious, S. (2002). Lagoon Restoration near Ephemeral River
Mouth. Journal of Waterway, Port, Coastal, and Ocean Engineering, Vol. 128, No.2, 79-
87. ISSN: 0733-950X.
Chang, H.H. (2006a). Generalized computer program: FLUVIAL-12 Mathematical Model for
Erodible Channel Users Manual. San Deigo State University, San Deigo, California.
Chang, C.K., Ab. Ghani, A., Zakaria, N.A., & Abdullah, R. (2005). Sediment Transport in
Kulim River, Malaysia. In: Proceedings of XXXI IAHR Congress: Water Engineering
for the Future - Choice and Challenges, September, 2005. Seoul, Korea, pp. 1154-
1162, ISBN: 89-87898-24-5.
Chang, C.K. (2006b). Sediment Transport in Kulim River, Kedah. M.Sc. Thesis. Universiti Sains
Malaysia. Penang.
Chang, C.K., Ab. Ghani, A., Abdullah, R., Zakaria, N.A. (2008). Sediment transport
modeling for Kulim River : a case study. Journal of Hydroenvironment Research, Vol.
2, No. 1, 47-59. IAHR & KWRA. ISSN: 1570-6443.
Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia or DID. (1976). River Discharge Measurement
by Current Meter - Hydrological Procedure No. 15. DID, Kuala Lumpur.
Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia or DID. (1977). The Determination of
Suspended Sediment Discharge - Hydrological Procedure No. 19. DID, Kuala Lumpur.
196 Sediment Transport

Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia. (1996). Study on Flood Mitigation and
Drainage Master Plan for Kulim and its Surroundings. Final Report. DID, Kedah Darul
Aman.
Department of Irrigation and Drainage Malaysia or DID. (2009). Study on River Sand Mining
Capacity in Malaysia. DID, Kuala Lumpur.
Department of Water Resources or DWR (2004). Effects of Project Operations on Geomorphic
Processes Downstream of Oroville Dam: Task 7 - Hydraulic and Sediment Transport
Modeling With FLUVIAL-12. Draft Final Report. Oroville Facilities Relicensing FERC
Project No. 2100, The Resources Agency, State of California.
Edwards, T.K., Glysson, G.D. (1999). Field Methods for Measurement of Fluvial Sediment. U.S.
Geological Survey Techniques of Water-Resources Investigations. Book, Chapter
C2.
Fan, S.S. (1988). Twelve Selected Computer Stream Sedimentation Models Developed in the United
State. In: Proceeding of the Interagency Symposium on Computer Stream
Sedimentation Model, Denver, Colorado. Published by the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC.
Federal Interagency Stream Restoration Working Group or FISRWG. (2001). Stream Corridor
Restoration: Principles, Processes, and Practices. Federal Interagency Stream
Restoration Working Group (15 Federal agencies of the US Government), Portland.
ISBN: 0-934213-59-3.
Lagasse, P.F., Schall, J.D., Richardson, E.V. (2001). Stream Stability at Highway Structures, US
Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. Publication No.
FHWA NHI 01-002 (Hydraulic Engineering Circular No. 20), 3rd Edition,
Washington, D.C.
Majlis Daerah Kulim or MDK (1993). Kulim Structure Plan, 1990-2010. Kuala Lumpur.
National Research Council. (1983). An Evaluation of Flood-level Prediction using Alluvial
River Model. National Academy Press, Washington, D.C
Richardson, E.V., Simons, D.B., Lagasse, P.F., (2001). River Engineering for Highway
Encroachments - Highways in The River Enviroment, US Department of
Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. Publication No. FHWA NHI 01-
004 (Hydraulic Design Series Number 6), Washington, D.C.
Sirdari, Z.Z. (2009). Effects of Channelization on the Stability of Kulim River. M.Sc. Thesis.
Universiti Sains Malaysia. Penang.
United States Army Corps of Engineers or USACE (1995). Sedimentation Investigations of
Rivers and Reservoirs. USACE Engineering and Design Manual. Publication No. EM
1110-2-4000, Washington, D.C.
Yuqian, L. (1989). Manual on Operational Methods for the Measurement of Sediment Transport.
Operational Hydrology Report No. 29, World Meteorological Organisation,
Geneva, Switzerland, 169 p. ISBN: 92-63-10686-X.
 10

Changes in Sediment Transport of the

Yellow River in the Loess Plateau
Faye Hirshfield and Jueyi Sui
University of Northern British Columbia
Canada

1. Introduction
Sediment erosion is a pressing problem throughout the world as it leads to loss of resources
such as agricultural land. Soil erosion most commonly occurs as a result of the forces exerted
by wind and water. Human induced landscape change can expedite soil erosion due to
removal of vegetation, urbanization and rangeland grazing (to name a few). Sediment
erosion can lead to increased sediment input to nearby rivers which can alter river channel
morphology through increased sediment deposition. Sediment transport in rivers is also
important on a global scale as sediments carry organic carbon from the land to oceans via
river channels (Ludwig et al., 1996).
River sediment levels depend largely on the surrounding landscape. Areas where the soil is
being impacted directly through activities such as cultivation and urbanization will
generally contribute large amounts of sediment to a nearby channel. As seen over the last
century, high river sedimentation can lead to issues with drinking water quality and
engineering structures such as reservoirs. In order to manage the landscape effectively, soil
conservationists in the United States developed a universal soil loss equation during the
1950’s (Wischmeier, 1976). The soil loss of an area is calculated as follows,

A = RKLSCP (1)
where A is the computed soil loss per unit area in tons per acre, R is the rainfall factor, as it
defines the erosive force of a specific rainfall, K is the soil erodability factor, L is the slope
length factor, S is the slope gradient factor, C is the cropping management factor as it
defines the rate of soil loss from a field with specific cropping practice and P is the erosion
control factor as it defines whether any erosion management factors have been implemented
The universal soil loss equation has since been modified a number of times and still acts as a
powerful tool to calculate soil movement across a landscape.
Alternative techniques that are applied in the study of sediment transport are the
interpretation of rainfall data and watershed area to calculate runoff depth and the use of
river discharge data along with sediment level measurement to calculate river sediment
yield. Annual runoff is given by the following equation,

Q(365)(24)(3600)
Runoff Depth = (2)
A(1000)
198 Sediment Transport

where A is the drainage area in kilometres squared and Q is river discharge in cubic metres.
River sediment yield is given by the following equation,

suspended sediment flux

(3)
drainage area
The Yellow River in China has long been known for its sediment problems. During the past
50 years, industrial development (hydropower) and urbanization in China have led to
drastic changes in topography. Decreases in vegetation cover have led to increased soil
erosion through wind and runoff processes. Vast amounts of research have examined the
sediment levels of the Yellow River. The purpose of the chapter is to review characteristics
of the Loess Plateau region of the Yellow River watershed, examine how sediment transport
has changed over the past 50 years and assess whether sediment conservation initiatives
have been successful. The chapter is outlined as follows: (a) an introduction to the Yellow
River watershed and Loess Plateau, (b) review government policy that has been developed
in order to manage soil erosion of the region, (c) an in depth look at research surrounding
sedimentation in the Yellow River’s Middle Reach, and (d) success in sediment management
of the Loess Plateau.

2. The Yellow River watershed

The Yellow River, the second largest river in China, and 6th longest in the world is an area of
historical significance as it was once the most prosperous region in China. The area is both a
place of prosperity and tragedy as over the centuries flooding has caused devastation in the
area. The Yellow River headwaters are located in the Bayan Har Mountain region of western
China. The river flows east, crossing 9 provinces, and empties into the Bohai Sea. Since the
Yellow River watershed is so large, approximately 742,440 square kilometres in area and a
channel length of 5464 kilometres, the basin is typically divided into 3 geographic areas: the
Upper, Middle and Lower reaches (Figure 1). The Upper Reach originates in China’s
Qinghai province and travels approximately 3,500 kilometres before the channel turns south
in Inner Mongolia. The Upper Reach constitutes just over 50 percent of the total basin area
and varies in topography from mountain regions to swamps to grasslands. Much of the
Upper Reach channel morphology is dominated by deep canyons and steep channel
gradients which make the area suitable for hydro electric power stations
The Middle Reach of the Yellow River begins in Inner Mongolia and stretches
approximately 1,200 kilometres to the Province of Henan. The Middle Reach acts as a
natural border for the provinces of Shaanxi and Shanxi. The Middle Reach cuts through the
Loess Plateau, an area dominated by highly erosive loess sediments. The Loess Plateau
covers an area of approximately 640,000 square kilometres. The Yellow River’s name refers
to the often yellowish color the water has from the high levels of loess. Loess is windblown
sediment that contains various levels of sand, silt and clay. Loess grains can be angular in
shape which often leads to the formation of loess ridges and banks which dominate the
Middle Reach. The Loess Plateau is the main source of sediment for the Yellow River. Due
to the large amount of sediment transported from the Loess Plateau into the Yellow River,
the Yellow River is considered to be one of the most sediment laden rivers in the world.
The Lower Reach is approximately 790 kilometres long and flow northeast across the North
China Plain and into the Bonai Sea. The Lower Reach has little elevation change, the channel
widens considerably and river flows are calm and slow. The Lower Reach is an area of
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 199

sediment deposition as a result of the sediment loading that takes place in the Loess Plateau
region. Sediment deposition in the Lower Reach has caused the river level to rise several
metres above the surrounding land elevation. As reported by the Chinese Association of
Hydraulic Engineering, during the past 50 years the river bed in the Yellow River Lower
Reaches has been raised from 1.9 metres to 3 metres. Dike construction in the Lower Reach
is important for flood prevention and allows for human settlement. Dike construction, while
it helps to prevent flooding it does not eliminate the risk. Historical records indicate that in
1,500 of the past 2,540 years dike breaches have occurred (Shi & Ye, 1997). Dike failure has
caused property devastation and loss of human life.

Fig. 1. Yellow River watershed (modified from Lui et al., 2008).

Prior to 1960, no hydropower development existed on the Yellow River. During the 1960’s
and 1970’s, the Yellow River watershed experienced economic prosperity which led to the
construction of hydropower stations. As reported by Xu (2003), the Yellow River watershed
currently has over 3,300 reservoirs and 17,000 hydraulic structures for water pumping and
transferring. There are 9 major hydroelectric stations on the main stem of the Yellow River.
The hydropower stations serve not only to provide electricity but are also designed to
reduce sedimentation, provide flood control and provide irrigation water supply. Following
the extensive hydro development on the Yellow River, soil conservation programs have
grown from 8,000 square kilometres in the 1950’s to 171,300 square kilometres in the 1990’s
(Gu, 1994, 2002).

2.1 The Loess Plateau

The Loess Plateau covers an area of approximately 640,000 square kilometres, similar to the
size of France (Figure 2). It spans the Middle Reach of the Yellow River and is the world’s
200 Sediment Transport

largest deposit of loess. Historically, the Loess Plateau was highly fertile area which
contributed to the establishment of ancient Chinese civilizations originating in the region.
Due to the angular characteristics of loess sediments, inhabitants of the region were able to
construct dwellings in the form of caves. The Loess soil is rich in organic content and ranges
from 100 to 300 metres in depth (Cai, 2001). The north and east regions of the Loess Plateau
are home to mixed deciduous forests. In the eastern province of Shanxi is the Li Shan Nature
Reserve. This nature reserve covers an area of approximately 250 square kilometres,
supports a temperate forest and is home to rare species of salamander, deer and pheasant.
High sediment levels in the Yellow River are a direct result of erosion from the Loess
Plateau. The Loess Plateau is thought to have one of the highest erosion rates in the world
(Fu et al., 2000). The annual soil loss from the Loess Plateau is estimated to range from 200 to
30,000 tonnes/square kilometres (Liu, 1985; Zhu et al., 2004). The Yellow River transports
approximately 30 times the sediment of the Nile and 98 times the sediment of the

Fig. 2. China's Loess Plateau as indicated by dark grey shaded area.

Mississippi River (Kleine, 1997). The fine sand and silt particles that comprise loess are
highly susceptible to wind and water erosion. Loess soils can be eroded at a faster rate than
any other soil type (Pye, 1987). Human activity and expansion of farmland have removed a
lot of the areas forests and led to increased soil erosion. As China’s population grows, the
government is planning to intensify agricultural production of the Loess Plateau region.

2.2 Loess Plateau Watershed Rehabilitation Project

In 1994, in response to growing concern over desertification of the plateau, the Loess Plateau
Watershed Rehabilitation Project was launched and co-ordinated by the Chinese
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 201

Fig. 3. Loess Plateau and the Yellow River.

Government and World Bank. The goal of the project was to increase agricultural
productivity and income of the area while also decreasing the sediment transport to the
Yellow River. After a three year planning phase the following policy guidelines were
introduced:
1. Tree cutting banned-people in China were not allowed to undertake indiscriminate tree
cutting.
2. Tree planting banned on steep slopes-historical planting of crops on hillsides and
gullies was no longer permitted.
3. Land Tenure guidelines-specific rules were set out for farmers designating their rights
and responsibilities for each developed terrace and field.
4. Banning of free range grazing-sheep and goats were no longer allowed to wander freely
and graze, but rather had to be contained in pens or fenced areas.
In addition to policy implementation, a number of engineering structures were created in
order to reduce sedimentation. The most important engineering component was the
development of terraces on the loess slopes. This was achieved mainly by bulldozers, where
terraces were developed so farmers could plant crops in level fields that would retain a
greater amount of water and be less subject to erosion. A second key engineering
component of the project was the creation of sediment dams. Three types of sediment dams,
key dams, warping dams and check dams were all designed to either intercept sediment or
to decrease water flow there by reducing the erosive channel characteristics.
Outcomes of the project according to the World Bank (World Bank, 2003) are as follows:
a. approximately 1 million farmers have benefited from increased agricultural
sustainability. Average agricultural income has increased by up to 4 times.
202 Sediment Transport

b. grain output from the region has increased 1.5 times and annual fruit output has
increased four fold.
c. annual sediment transport to the Yellow River has decreased by approximately 57
million tonnes.
Overall, the Loess Plateau watershed rehabilitation project was the largest of its kind to
date. Both the Chinese government and World Bank rated the project as successful as all
project targets were met.

3. Sediment transport and the Loess Plateau

There are a number of tributaries in the Middle Reach of the Yellow River all with varying
topography and drainage areas. When examining sediment transport in any river, it is
important to consider not only the river main stem but also the tributaries in order to specify
sediment source locations. The following sections identify research done by the authors and
others which examine main stem gauging stations, tributaries and reservoirs in the Loess
Plateau. Variations in sediment transport under winter ice conditions are also examined.

3.1 General trends in sediment transport, Yellow River’s Middle Reach, Loess Plateau
This section looks at general sediment characteristics of the middle reach (Figure 4) and how
it compares to the Upper and Lower reaches; this section is based largely upon Liu et al.
(2008). There are two gauging stations on the Yellow River’s Middle Reach. The most
upstream station is the Longmen station, and downstream is the Tongguan gauging station
(Figure 4). Both gauging stations in the Middle Reach revealed decreasing sediment yields
over the past 50 years (Liu et al., 2008). Long term and short term runoff depths are Lower in
the Middle Reach in comparison to the Upper Reach. The long term average runoff depths
as reported by Liu et al. (2008) have decreased by approximately 40 percent during the past
ten years (Table 1). Similarly, annual sediment yield in the Middle Reach has also decreased
between 50 to 60 percent in the last ten years (Table 1).

Annual runoff Annual sediment yield

Drainage Data
Station depth Q (mm) S (t/km2)
area (km2) period
LTA Q RA Q10 LTA S RA S10
Longmen 497,552 1950-2005 53.68 32.47 1543.65 612.48
Tongguan 682,141 1952-2005 51.29 29.79 1631.39 766.13
Table 1. Long term average (LTA) and recent 10 year average (RA10) runoff depths and annual
sediment yield for the middle reach of the Yellow River, as reported by Liu et al., (2008).
Even though the sediment yield is decreasing, the sediment yield in the Middle Reach
during the past 10 years is still 4 to 7 times the Upper Reach and 2 to 3 times the Lower
Reach (Liu et al., 2008). The Middle Reach, while it accounts for only 15 percent of the
drainage area, approximately 90 percent of the sediment comes from this region (Liu et al.,
2008). The influence of the Loess landscape definitely has a direct impact on sediment levels
in the middle reach. Poor grazing and cultivation practices in the Loess Plateau can lead to
soil disturbance. The majority of the precipitation for the region falls between the months of
June to September (Cai, 2001); during such time disturbed soils can be transported to the
river channel by overland flow. The decrease in sediment yield experienced in the past 10
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 203

years may be due to the implementation of terraces and sediment dams throughout the
region as part of the Loess Plateau watershed rehabilitation project.

Fig. 4. Loess Plateau region along the middle reach of the Yellow River (modified from Sui
et al., 2008).

3.2 Sediment transport in the Huangfuchuan watershed along the Loess Plateau
The Huangfuchuan watershed, which is located in the centre of the middle reach in the
Inner Mongolia region of China, is an important contributor of sediment to the Yellow
River’s main stem (Figure 5). The following examination of sediment contributions from the
Huangfuchuan watershed is based upon Sui et al. (2008).
The Huangfuchuan watershed covers an area of 3199 square kilometres. The main stem is
137 kilometres long, and the average channel slope is 2.7 percent. The watershed landscape
consists of many hills and gullies with the majority of the soil type being loess. The
thickness of the loess layers ranges from 20 to 80 centimetres. Three gauging stations are
used to examine sediment transport in the Huangfuchuan watershed: (1) the Huangfuchuan
station, located approximately 14 kilometres upstream from the Huangfuchuan’s confluence
with the Yellow River, (2) the Toudaoguai gauging station, located on the Yellow River
mainstream, 178 kilometres upstream of the Huangfuchuan River and (3) the Fugu gauging
station, located on the Yellow River main stem, approximately 38 kilometres downstream of
the Huangfuchuan/Yellow River confluence. The location of the Toudaoguai and Fugu
stations provides an excellent opportunity to quantify the sediment contributions of the
Huangfuchuan watershed.
The downstream Fugu gauging station, sediment levels are much higher than at the
upstream Toudaoguai gauging station (Table 1). It is thought that the Huangfuchuan River
watershed contributes sediment to the Yellow River main stem and accounts for the higher
sediment concentration downstream. Also, in contradiction to what is expected, the
downstream Fugu station has a lower long term annual discharge in comparison to the
upstream Toudaoguai station (Table 1). This may be a result of the high amount of water
withdrawals from the Yellow River for agricultural, domestic and industrial use.
204 Sediment Transport

Fig. 5. Huangfuchuan watershed, located in the middle reach of the Yellow River (modified
from Sui et al., 2008).

Long term annual discharge (m3/s) Long term annual sediment concentration (kg/m3)
Huangfuchuan Toudaoguai Fugu Huangfuchuan Toudaoguai Fugu
5.23 802.47 789.18 29.47 2.98 5.24
Table 2. Long term annual discharge and sediment concentrations, calculated from Sui et al
(2008).
Average monthly precipitation depth was calculated by using data from the Hequ, Yulin
and Dongsheng climate stations. As shown in Figure 7, over the last 50 years all three
gauging stations exhibit a downwards trend in precipitation. Approximately 80 percent of
the total precipitation falls during the months of June to September. Little precipitation falls
in this region between the months of November and May. During this time, the soil
moisture content is low and it is though that the loess sediment is eroded through wind
processes. During the rainy months, June through August, moisture seeps into the soil and
less surface runoff occurs.
The runoff depths at the Toudaoguai (upstream) and Fugu (downstream) gauging stations
is similar; however the sediment concentration is much higher at the downstream station.
This is mainly due to sediment inputs from the Huangfuchuan sub-watershed, located
between the upstream and downstream gauging stations. The sediment transport is higher
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 205

at the Huangfuchuan gauging station in comparison to the Toudaoguai and Fugu gauging
stations. Approximately 80 percent of the precipitation and runoff in the Huangfuchuan
sub-watershed occurs during the months from June to September; the largest sediment grain
size also occurs in the summer when the kinetic energy is highest.
Typically, sediment concentration in rivers increases with discharge due to the increased
kinetic energy of the water (Yang et al., 2005). Interestingly, the above relationship between
discharge and sediment transport is not consistent in the Huangfuchuan River during the
summer months. As shown in Figure 6, the highest monthly average sediment concentration
occurring in July is 130 kilograms per cubic metres, while the average monthly July
discharge is 16 cubic metres per second. It is thought that the desynchronization of sediment
concentration and discharge is related to the antecedent soil moisture of the area.
Specifically, little rain falls during the spring months and it is thought that erosion of loess
soils in the Huangfuchuan watershed occur through wind transport. By the time summer
rain falls in the watershed, the precipitation is absorbed by the loess rather than contributing
to surface runoff.
Overall, it appears that the Huangfuchuan watershed is an important contributor of
sediment to the Yellow River. Over the past 50 years, runoff and sediment transport from
the Huangfuchuan watershed have been decreasing. Climate stations in the area indicate
that the average annual precipitation depth has also been decreasing; this may account for
the decrease in annual runoff. However, the region has also been subject to various soil
conservation initiatives in order to manage erosion. This may also be a contributing factor in
the decrease of sediment transport from the Huangfuchuan watershed.

Fig. 6. Sediment concentration and discharge for the Huangfuchuan River station, 1954-1989
(from Sui et al., 2008).

3.3 Sediment transport in the Kuye River watershed, Loess Plateau

Similar to the Huangfuchuan watershed, the Kuye River watershed is important tributary
located in the Yellow River’s Middle Reach. The following examination of sediment
transport in the Kuye watershed is based upon Sui et al (2009). The Kuye River watershed is
206 Sediment Transport

Fig. 7. Annual change in precipitation depth of 3 climate stations around the Huangfuchuan
watershed (from Sui et al., 2008).
located downstream of the Huangfuchuan watershed as shown in Figure 8. The Kuye
main channel length is approximately 242 kilometres in length and the watershed covers
an area of 8,706 square kilometres. The Kuye watershed topography consists of hills,
gullies and exposed bedrock; vegetation exists in only 6 percent of the entire watershed.

Fig. 8. Kuye River watershed (from Sui et al., 2009).

Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 207

The loess ranges in depth from 20 to 80 metres. In comparison to the Huangfuchuan

watershed, the Kuye watershed is almost twice the size, has little vegetation and the loess
layer is much deeper. There is one gauging station on the Kuye River located approximately
7 kilometres upstream of the confluence with the Yellow River’s Main Stem. Two gauging
stations on the Yellow River Main Stem were also examined in order to study the sediment
contributions of the Kuye watershed. The Toudaoguai gauging station is located
approximately 302 kilometres upstream of the Kuye/Yellow River confluence (Figure 8).
The Longmen gauging station is located 431 kilometres downstream of the Kuye/Yellow
River confluence (Figure 8). At all gauging stations, annual discharge and sediment
concentration were examined for the period from 1955 to 2006. Precipitation records from
the Dongsheng and Wenjiachuan climate stations (Figure 8) were also used in order to
calculate runoff depth.

Fig. 9. Precipitation depth at the Wenjiachuan and Dongshen climate stations in the Kuye
watershed (from Sui et al. 2009).
The majority of the precipitation in the Kuye watershed falls during the months of June
through September. Over the past 50 years the annual precipitation in the Kuye watershed
has been decreasing; the Dongsheng station has a slight downward trend (Figure 9). The
highest precipitation months are generally July and August, which corresponds to the
months with the highest discharge (Figure 10 & 11). Interestingly, similar to the
Huangfuchuan watershed, the highest sediment concentration does not occur during the
month of highest discharge (Figure 11). In the Kuye watershed the highest average annual
sediment concentration of 125 kilogram per cubic metre, occurs in July; the average
discharge in July is 43 cubic metres per second. The month of August has the highest
average annual discharge, 66 cubic metres per second; however the sediment concentration
is 90 kilograms per cubic metre. In the Kuye watershed, this desychronization of sediment
and discharge measurements is thought to be related to the intermittent tributaries present
throughout the watershed. It is thought that during times of low precipitation the
intermittent tributary streams in the Kuye watershed do not have connectivity. The spring
season is generally quite windy and high amounts of loess are transported into the tributary
reaches; then during months of high precipitation (July and August, Figure 10), tributary
208 Sediment Transport

channels form connectivity. The month of July is typically dominated by flash flood events
where large amounts of stored sediment can be transported from the tributaries to the Kuye
main stem and eventually the Yellow River. Even though precipitation and discharge are
high in August, it is thought that the majority of the stored tributary sediments are
transported during July flash flood events.

Fig. 10. Average annual precipitation depth and runoff coefficient for the Dongsheng and
Wenjiachuan climate stations (from Sui et al. 2009).

Fig. 11. Sediment concentration and discharge in the Wenjiachuan watershed from 1955 to
2006 (from Sui et al. 2009).
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 209

3.4 Sediment transport characteristics of a reservoir in the Middle Reach

In general when examining sediment transport and deposition within a reservoir, it is
understood that finer, lighter particles will remain in suspension longest and be transported
the farthest distance. When a reservoir is located within a river reach, the channel velocity
decreases substantially in the transition zone from the channel to the reservoir. This
decrease in channel velocity is due to the widening of the river channel into a reservoir.
Conversely, larger, heavier particles will be deposited sooner, in the upper reach of the
reservoir. Over time, constant sediment deposition will reduce the storage capacity of the
reservoir and may eventually fill the area. Sediment removal practices must be undertaken
in order to adequately manage a reservoir. Reservoir flushing and sediment dredging are
common ways to mitigate sediment deposition.
Typically there are 3 main areas of deposition within a reservoir, backwater deposits, bottom
deposits and delta deposits (Figure 12). The backwater region of a reservoir is the region
that forms the transition zone between the river channel and the reservoir. Backwater
deposits are usually coarse grained sediments. The delta deposition region occurs within the
reservoir basin, immediately after the backwater zone. Sediment in the delta region is
usually a mix of course and fine grained particles. Sediment deposition in the delta region
can occur both across and into the reservoir. Lastly, the bottom deposition zone in a reservoir
occurs at the bottom of the deepest part of the reservoir. The sediment located in the bottom
deposition zone is fine grained, consisting of silts and clays (Batuca and Jordaan, 2000).

Fig. 12. Typical deposition regions within a reservoir.

Over the past 50 years, a number of hydropower stations have been developed in the main
reach of the Yellow River watershed. One of the reservoirs present on the Yellow River main
stem is the Tianqiao Reservoir, located just upstream of the Fugu gauging station in the
Loess Plateau (Figure 13). The Tianqiao hydropower station was the first power station ever
built on the Yellow River and has been in successful operation for more than 30 years. The
Tianqiao reservoir consists of two reaches, an upper and lower that form a total reach length
of 21 kilometres. The lower reach is 300 metres wide and 12.5 kilometres in length; the
upper reach is 600 metres wide and 8.5 kilometres in length.
The water level in the Tianqiao reservoir varies depending on the hydropower operations.
Sediment deposition in the Tianqiao backwater region retreats and advances depending on
operational water levels. As previously discussed, the upstream Huangfuchuan sub-
210 Sediment Transport

watershed of the Yellow River is a major source area of loess sediment. Shoals and sandbars
development is common in the backwater region of the Tianqiao Reservoir and is likely due
to the influx of sediment from the Huangfuchuan watershed (Sui et al., 2005). The
relationship between sediment deposition in the Tianqiao Reservoir and the sediment
source area upstream is evident when examining historical flash flood events. During 1982
the Huangfuchuan watershed experienced flash flooding during the end of July as indicated
by the reported gauging station data (Table 3). Sediment deposition in the Tianqiao
reservoir was also high during 1982 (Figure 14). Sediments are primarily deposited in the
backwater region of the reservoir as the relatively low flow velocity is unable to transport all
the incoming sediment. Over the season, as the backwater region experiences more
sediment deposition, the water level of the area rises, which in turn would increase the
kinetic flow energy. During the fall and winter seasons, when sediment supply to the
reservoir is low, the high flow energy is then able to transport sediments (scouring) from the
backwater region into the reservoir (Sui, et al., 2005).

Date Discharge (m3/s) Sediment concentration (kg/m3)

29 July 1982 1,100 1,250
30 July 1982 2,580 1,190
Table 3. Measured discharge and sediment concentration in the Huangfuchuan watershed,
1982 (as reported by Sui et al. 2005).

Fig. 13. Tianqiao hydropower station and reservoir along the Yellow River.
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 211

Generally, during the summer season when precipitation is high and flooding occurs, the
Tianqiao reservoir is in deposition mode. For the remainder of the year, the reservoir is in a
scouring mode. Over time the majority of the sediment, approximately 85 percent, becomes
deposited in the lower reservoir reach (Sui et al., 2005). Understanding the dynamic
relationship between climate, sediment transport and sediment deposition is important in
reservoir management. Knowledge of sediment influx is key in development of sediment
removal programs, budget allocation and hydropower management.

60 1.00
Volume of deposited sediment (10 6 m 3 )

50 0.95

Ratio (Vl /V t)
40 0.90

30 0.85

20 Total deposit in reservoir Vt 0.80

Deposit in the lower reservoir Vl
Deposit in the upper reservoir reach
10 Ratio = Vl/Vtl 0.75

0 0.70
1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985

Year
Fig. 14. Volume of sediment deposited in the upper and lower reaches of the Tianqiao
Reservoir (from Sui et al., 2005).

3.4 Sediment transport characteristics during winter ice cover

While sediment transport in the Loess plateau under open channel flow has been discussed,
sediment transport during winter conditions must also be addressed in order to gain a full
understanding of the seasonal fluctuations in sediment. Ice cover and jams are frequent
along the Yellow River’s Middle Reach during the winter season. At the beginning of the
Middle Reach is a channel area often referred to as the Hequ Reach; the Hequ reach spans
from the Longkou Gorge to the Tianqiao Power Dam as shown in Figure 15. The Hequ reach
is approximately 70 kilometres in length with a broad and shallow morphology. Upstream
of the Longkou Gorge area, the Yellow River channel is a long, open reach of water; in this
area a large amount of frazil ice forms during the winter. The frazil ice is transported
downstream, and numerous ice jam events occur in the Hequ Reach. The following is a brief
description of the relationship between frazil ice and sediment entrapment as examined in
the Hequ Reach of the Yellow River.
In general for open channel flow the sediment concentration of a river depends on the
current velocity and the characteristics of the river bed material. The higher the river
212 Sediment Transport

discharge, the higher the sediment concentration. This relationship becomes much more
complicated with the introduction of ice cover and frazil ice. During ice cover, sediment is
transported not only through the water but also through attachment to river ice (frazil ice)
(Sui et al., 2000). During frazil ice formation, supercooled water is transported throughout
the water column promoting ice nucleation. During this process, ice crystals can become
attached to pebbles or other sediments on the river bed. In areas of the Hequ Reach in the
Loess Plateau, pebbles ranging in size from 0.2 top 0.5 kilograms have been observed in
frazil jams (Sui et al., 2000). The upper layer of frazil ice generally has a higher sediment
concentration than the lower frazil layers. The highest sediment concentration recorded was
25 kilograms per cubic metres of ice; this is much larger than the highest sediment in water
concentration during a jam (7 kilograms per cubic metre) (Sui et al., 2000). During periods of
ice jam formation or ice jam breakup, sediment concentrations were found to be higher than
during times of stable jamming.

Fig. 15. The Hequ reach along the Loess Plateau region of the Yellow River.
While it has been discussed that the majority of the sediment transport in the Loess Plateau
occurs during the summer season, the sediment transport during winter is unique. If ice
jamming and frazil ice formation prevail, sediments of large size can be transported down
the river reach.
Changes in Sediment Transport of the Yellow River in the Loess Plateau 213

4. Success of soil conservation initiatives in the Loess Plateau

In general over the past 50 years, while accounting for human water use and impact, runoff
in all reaches of the Yellow River watershed has decreased over the past 50 years (Fu et al.,
2004). Changes to land use, global warming, ground water exploitation and human
activities (among others) were reported as factors influencing the basin runoff (Fu, et al.,
2004). Specific to the Loess Plateau, soil conservation initiatives appear to have had a great
impact on the sediment transport to the Yellow River. Large areas of once bare land have
been planted with trees and grass and cattle grazing has been forbidden. By the year 2000,
the seven provinces that intersect with the Loess Plateau had improved a total of 177,000
square kilometres of eroded land (CERN, 2001). Reclamation to grazing areas appears to
have made the largest impact on sediment transport in the Loess Plateau. Local farmers
have found drylot feeding more profitable and local vegetation is now protected (CERN,
2001). The implementation of sediment dams also appears to have altered the amount of soil
erosion. Sediment dams constructed vary from 2 to 5 metres in height and work to
effectively trap eroded topsoil. One a substantial area of topsoil is formed behind the dam,
the area can be used as high-yield agriculture plots. The largest reduction in sediment
transport can be seen in the Kuye watershed. The long term average sediment transport
modulus for the Wenjiachuan gauging station is 10,591 tonnes per square kilometre per
year. During the last ten years this values has significantly decreased to 2,805 tonnes per
square kilometre per year (Sui et al., 2009)

5. Summary and conclusion

This chapter discussed sediment transport within the Loess Plateau region of the Yellow
River. The erosion of loess sediments has long been a problem for people residing in the
region. Soil erosion has been responsible for loss of agricultural land and significantly
altered the lives of many communities residing in the Loess Plateau. There are a number of
tributaries in the loess plateau region that contribute significant amount of sediment to the
Yellow River’s Middle Reach. The Huangfuchuan and Kuye watersheds were shown as
sediment source areas with a large amount of sediment transport occurring during the
summer flood months. Sediment transport from these watersheds also has large
implications for the management of the Tianqiao reservoir. During the 1990’s the
Government of China implemented a number of soil conservation initiatives as part of the
Loess Plateau watershed rehabilitation project. Terraces were constructed throughout the
loess plateau, grazing was prohibited and sediment dams were constructed. Sediment
concentration in both the main stem of the Middle Reach and in both the Huangfuchuan
and Kuye rivers has decreased during the last 10 years. Overall the decrease in sediment
levels in the Middle Reach are attributed to implementation of soil conservation initiatives.

6. References
Batuca, D. & Jordaan, J. (2000). Silting and desilting of reservoirs, A.A.Balkema, ISBN
9054104775, Netherlands.
Cai, Q. (2001). Soil erosion and management on the Loess Plateau. Journal of Geographical
Sciences. Vol. 11, No. 1, 53-70.
China Education and Research Network, CERN. (2001). Cleaning the Yellow River. Special
Report, http://www.edu.cn/special_1506/20060323/t20060323_4751.shtml.
214 Sediment Transport

Fu, B., Chen, L., Keming, M., Huafeng, Z. & Wang, J. (2000). The relationship between land
use and soil condition in the hilly area of the loess plateau in northern Shaanxi,
China. Catena, Vol. 39, 69-78.
Fu, G., Chen, S., Liu, C. & Shepard, D. (2004). Hydro-climatic trends of the Yellow River
Basin for the last 50 years. Climatic Change, Vol. 75, 149-178.
Gu, W. (1994). On the reduction of water and sediment yield of the Yellow River in late
years. International Journal of Sediment Research, Vol. 9, No. 1, 1-12.
Gu, W. (2002). Report on changes in water and sediment levels of the Yellow River, In:
Researches on changes in water and sediment loads of the Yellow River, Wang, G.
& Fan, Z (Ed.), 1-45, Yellow River Conservancy Press, Zhengzhou.
Kleine, D. (1997). “Who will feed China?” Journal of Soil and Water Conservation. Vol. 52, No.
6, 398-399.
Liu, T. (1985). Loess and the environment (ed. by Liu). Science Press, Beijing, China (in
Chinese), 62-81.
Liu, C., Sui, J., & Wang, Z. (2008). Changes in runoff and sediment yield along the Yellow
River during the period from 1950 to 2006. Journal of Environmental Informatics,
Vol. 12, No. 2, 129-139.
Ludwig, W., Probst, J. & Kempe, S. (1996). Predicting the oceanic input of organic carbon by
continental erosion. Global Biogeochemical Cycles, Vol. 10, No. 1, 23-41.
Pye, K. (1987). Aeolian dust and dust deposits. Academic Press, London, ISBN 0125686919,
Orlando, 334 p.
Shi, C & Ye, Q. (1997). Bank breach hazards in the lower Yellow River. Destructive Water:
Water-caused natural disasters, their Abatement and Control, Proceedings of the
International conference on destructive water, Anaheim, California, 24-28 June
1996.
Sui, J., Wang, D. & Karney, B. (2000). Suspended sediment concentration and deformation of
riverbed in a frazil jammed reach. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol 27,
1120-1129.
Sui, J., Jackson, P., Liu, C., Fang, D., Wang, J. (2005). Characteristics of sediment transport
along a river reach with a reservoir. International Journal of Sediment Research, 20(2),
89-102.
Sui, J., He, Y., & Karney, B. (2008). Flow and high sediment yield from the Huangfuchuan
watershed. International Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 5, No. 2, 149-160.
Sui, J., He, Y., & Liu, C. (2009). Changes in sediment transport in the Kuye River in the Loess
Plateau in China. International Journal of Sediment Research, Vol. 24, No. 2, 201-213.
Wischmeier, W. (1976). Use and misuse of the universal soil loss equation. Journal of soil and
water conservation. Vol. 31, No. 1, 5-9.
World Bank. (2003). China – Loess Plateau watershed rehabilitation project. Implementation
completion and results report. 1-45 pp.
Xu, J.X. (2003). Sedimentation rates in the lower Yellow River over the past 2300 years as
influenced by human activities and climate change, Hydrological Processes, Vol. 17,
No. 16, 3359-3371.
Yang, S., Gao, A., Hotz, H., Zhu, J., Dai, B. & Li, M. (2005). Trends in annual discharge from
the Yangtze River to the sea (1865-2004). Journal of Hydrologic Sciences, Vol. 50, No.
5, 825-836.
Zhu, Z., Zhou, I., An, Z. & Liu, T. (2004). A river erosion estimate on the Loess Plateau: a
case study from Luohe River, a second order tributary of the Yellow River. Global
and Planetary Change, Vol. 41, 215-220.
 11

Modeling of
Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel
L. Yilmaz
Civil Engineering Faculty, Hydraulic Division, Technical University of Istanbul,
80626, Maslak,
Istanbul,
Turkey

1. Introduction
The meandering planforms of alluvial rivers pose hazardous impacts on the human life, for
a major portion of inhabitation lies on the banks of such rivers for the reason of easy water
availability, land fertility and food grain productivity, and economic navigation and
transportation of goods. Meandering is a self-induced plan deformation of a stream that is
(ideally) periodic and anti-symmetrical with respect to an axis, which may or may not be
exactly straight. According to this definition, which will be used in the following, an alluvial
stream which deforms its initially straight channel into one of the periodic and anti-
symmetrical plan forms is meandering; whereas a stream flowing in a tortuous rocky terrain
or in a rigid sinuous flume, whose curvilinear plan pattern has not been created by that
stream itself, is not meandering. Meandering can be classified as regular, irregular, or
skewed, depending on the form of the meandering bend migration. The thalweg and
tortuosity describe the meandering characteristics.
The most important parameter defining meander geometry is the tortuosity or sinuosity of
the curved channel. Tortuosity was defined by Leopold and Wolman (1957) as the ratio of
thalweg length (length along the line of maximum depth) to valley length, by Friedkin
(1945) as the ratio of thalweg length to air line distance, and by Leopold and Wolman in
their subsequent contribution (1960) as ratio of arc distance to wave length in a single
meander. The first definition appears to be preferable because of its simplicity, requiring less
judgement in measurement. To help visualize the degree of meandering associated with a
particular tortuosity ratio, available concepts were examined. The concept which appeared
most satisfactory was that presented by Langbein and Leopold (1966), who postulated that
the planimetric geometry of a meander is that of a random walk, whose most frequent form
is that which minimizes the sum of squares of the changes in direction, in each successive
unit length. The direction angles are then sine functions of channel distance. This yields a
meander shape typically present in meandering rivers.
Every phase of meandering represents a changing relationship between three closely related
variables: the flow and the hydraulic properties of the channel, the amount of sand moving
along the bed, and the rate of bank erosion. These three variables constantly strive to reach a
balance, but never do even with a constant rate of flow. The bends of a meandering river
216 Sediment Transport

have limited widths and lengths. The flow and the hydraulic properties of the meandering
river, the amount of sand moving along the bed, and the rate of bank erosion determine
these limits. When a bend reaches this width, a chute forms and a new bend develops
farther downstream. Distorted bends and natural cut-offs are caused by local changes in the
character of bank materials.
Several hypotheses have been brought forward to explain meandering. Meandering has
been attributed to the earth’s rotation; to the excessive slope and energy of a river
(Anderson, 1967; Raudkivi, 1966, 1967; Fredsoe, 1982; McLean and Smith, 1986; Gust, 1988;
Nelson, 1989; Yilmaz, 1990; and to changes in stage of sediment formation at the boundary
(Exner, 1919). It is often considered that an irregularity in the bankline or another causing
factors will disturb the flow and cause meandering. Alternate bars give rise to a sinuous
migrating thalweg within initially straight banks, and might somehow evolve into
meanders, provided channel banks are also erodible. The formation of alternate bars imply
incipient meandering (Tubino and Seminara, 1990). The coexistence of free or migrating and
forced or fixed bars in a meandering channel has been investigated through laboratory
experiments by Gottlieb (1976) and Fujita and Muramoto (1982).
Rivers with a sinuosity, defined as the ratio of valley slope to channel slope, of 1.5 or greater
are considered as meandering (Leopold and Wolman, 1957). In a simple of 50 rivers
differing in size as well as in physiography, Leopold et al., 1964, found that two-thirds of the
ratios were in the range 1.5-4.3, with a median value of 2.7. In view of this striking geometric
regularity of winding rivers, they suggested that meanders are no accident and they appear
to be in the form in which a river does the least work in turning. A river is the author of its
own geometry. It is adjusted, in the long term, so that its ability to transport balances the
water discharge and sediment load supplied from the watershed.The adjustments, which
may include channel geometry, slope, meandering pattern, roughness, etc., reflect in part
changes in the river’s resistance; that is, in energy expenditure. It has previously been
suggested that the basic reason for meandering is related to the rate of energy, or power,
expenditure (Leopold and Wolman, 1960; Yang and Song, 1971). Meander geometry is
obtained such that the inflow quantities of water and sediment are carried with minimum
power expenditure per unit channel length as well as minimum power for the river reach.
Chang (1979) applied the concept of minimum stream power per unit channel length
together with relations of continuity, bed load, flow resistance, bank stability, etc., to obtain
the regime geometry of alluvial streams under uniform flow conditions.
For a given discharge, meandering occurs on smaller slopes (Lane, 1957; Leopold and
Wolman, 1957; Schumm, 1977). At steeper slopes, rivers are often braided in multiple
channels separate by interlaced islands. In addition to the smaller slope and sinuous pattern,
meandering rivers are characterized by a nearly uniform width along the channel. For
purposes of river meander analysis (Chang, 1984), variables for regime conditions have been
identified as independent variables, dependent variables, and constraints (Kennedy, and
Brooks, 1963; Leopold, Wolman and Miller, 1964). Those which are imposed on the river
from its watershed are independent variables or controlling variables and those which result
when equilibrium is reached are dependent variables. Water discharge and sediment inflow
and their respective properties which are determined by the watershed are independent
variables for the river. Dependent variables include the flow velocity, channel width, flow
depth, channel slope, and radius of curvature. The channel roughness and transverse bed
slope in the curved channel are not additional dependent variables as they may be
computed based on other variables. The valley slope is treated as another independent
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 217

variable since the time scale for its formation is much greater than for regime channel
geometry. The bank slope is another dependent variable.
The increased concern with riverbank erosion has increased the demand for theoretical
models that can predict flow and bed features in a meandering alluvial channel. The most
significant meander-flow characteristics are the spiraling of the mean flow due to channel
curvature and nonuniformity of the velocity profile, the point bar, and deep pool bed
topography near the apex of each bend. In order to plan, design, construct, or maintain
bank-erosion control structures and river-basin projects in general, the meander
characteristics must be quantified. Most of the studies have been concerned with the fully
developed flow in a constant-radius; singular bend with uniform approach flow. A partial
summary of these studies was given previously (Odgaard, 1981). The natural bend neither
has a uniform approach flow; nor has a constant radius of curvature. The flow, generally, is
in a state of either development or decay, or both. The purpose is to present an analytical
approach to describe the flow and bed topography in such a channel (Odgaard, 1986). A
change in channel curvature is as important as the curvature itself to the behavior of the bed
profile. The model predicts that the secondary-flow component and the transverse bed slope
react to the curvature changes like a damped oscillating system subjected to a driving force.
The driving force can be any conceivable input function (an abrupt change in curvature, a
harmonically oscillating curvature, or any other curvature variation).
Several formulas are theoretically and empirically proposed for the alternate bar wavelength
(Ikeda, 1984). Due to dense population, most Japanese rivers are channelized, and many
meandering rivers have been straightened. The emergence of alternate bars in these rivers
destabilizes the channels, and induces subsequent side bank erosion.
Kinoshita (1987) found that the alternate bars are formed even in a straight laboratory flume
with fixed side walls, and his subsequent field work revealed that the formation of alternate
bars in straight rivers results in the development of meandering. Hayashi (1970) analyzed
the flow in straight flumes with alternate bars with a potential flow model, and examined
the stability of alternate bars. Hayashi and Ozaki (1980) treated the conditions of alternate-
bar occurrence, and obtained the bar wavelength. Sukegawa (1971, 1972), Ikeda (1973),
Kuroki et. al. (1975), Tamai et. al. (1978), and Muramoto and Fujita (1978) investigated the
conditions of bar occurrence and proposed various empirical stability diagrams. Among
others, Hansen (1967); Callander (1969); Engelund and Skovgaard (1973); Parker (1976);
Parker and Anderson (1975); and Fredsoe (1978) presented theoretical studies on alternate
bars. Field surveys are also documented abundantly, and much useful information is
presented.
The objective of this paper is to describe qualitatively experimental and theoretical
observations of meander evolution. Using dimensional analysis, Van Rijn (1984) concluded
that H/λ, should be dependent on D* (dimensionless particle parameter that reflects the
effect of viscosity), T (= τ* ‘/ τ* cr-1) and ds/h.For most of the data, no appreciable influence
of D* on the steepness was detected. Several rules may be stated from the observation of
Yalin’s (1977) arguments: Ripples may only occur at the lowest sediment transport rates
close to the initiation of grain motion, since those transport rates of grain sizes for which
ripples are possible (ds<0.7 mm) (Raudkivi, 1976) are inevitably associated with small Re*.
For a given grain size, a sediment transport rate exists for which dunes with superimposed
ripples begin to form. As the transport rate increases above this value, so does the size of
dunes, while the ripples steepness decrease and finally comes to zero. At this range of dual
bedforms, H/λ, ought to be a certain combination of both form dimensions.
218 Sediment Transport

1.1 Investigation of bed formations at the meandering channels

In order to investigate the reason of bed formations at the meandering channel theoretically,
the knowledge of the oscillatory flow field near a wavy sandy bottom is needed. To that
end, in a meandering stream model of a wavy sandy bottom, experimental observations of
meander evolution are described qualitatively. The second part of experimental procedure
consists of a description of the shear stress distribution changes of a straight channel with
artificially wavy bottom during the meander development.
The form of the steady streamings set up in addition to the oscillatory motion by the bed
profile is analyzed for different values of the parameters (Vittori, 1989). The non-linear
viscous oscillatory flow over a wavy wall of small amplitudes is determined. The solution
holds for arbitrary values of a*/L* (a* is the amplitude of fluid oscillations near the wall and
L* is the wavelength of wall perturbation); previous work by Lyne (1971) and Kaneko and
Honji (1979) are thus extended. An independent analysis for small values of a*/L* is
performed by Vittori (1989), and the relevance of the results to the study of ripples
formation at the bottom of sea waves is discussed.
In recent years many investigations have been devoted to the study of viscous oscillatory
flow over a wavy wall in the study of the interaction between the meandering flow and
meandering channel boundary layer in the nearbank region. Indeed it is well-known (Sleath,
1984) that a slight sinusoidal perturbation of the bottom in an oscillatory flow modifies the
flow field so that steady streamings of the type described by Stuart (1966) can be observed.
These steady drifts consist of recirculating cells whose form, intensity and direction depend
on the values assumed by relevant parameters (Vittori, 1989). As the sediment of the bed is
driven by the stress field associated with the fluid motion, a steady drift directed from the
troughs towards the crests of the perturbation, may lead to the growth of the latter and thus
to a pattern of sand waves (rolling grain ripples). Once formed, ripples will not continue to
grow indefinitely; the steady drift is modified by non-linear effects and as ripples get steeper
an equilibrium configuration is reached for which the gravity force acting down the slope
balances the stress field associated with the fluid motion. Moreover when the ratio between
the height and length of the ripples exceeds a value ranging about 0.1 the flow separates
behind the crests and leads to vortex shedding which modifies the flow field and the ripple
pattern. The latter was named vortex ripples by Bagnold (1946), who first introduced a
distinction between sea-bedforms for which flow separation is absent (rolling-grain-ripples)
and those which cause flow separation (vortex ripples). Lyne (1971) studied the flow
induced by fluid oscillations near a wavy wall of amplitude ( a dimensional quantity) much
smaller than the characteristic viscous length. However, Lyne (1971) restricted his attention
to the cases of small or large values of the ratio between the amplitude a* of fluid
oscillations and the wall wavelength L*. Furthermore, Kaneko (1981) proposed a numerical
solution in the same range of values of the parameters and a*/L*. As pointed out by Sleath
(1984), the limited applicability of the solutions for small and large values of a*/L* lies in the
fact that ripples usually form for values of a*/L* of order one. According to Vittori (1989), a
second harmonic with amplitude of second order is introduced in the bed profile to describe
the flow over a rippled bed with sharp peaks and flat troughs.
Every phase of meandering represents a changing relationship between three closely related
variables: the flow and the hydraulic properties of the channel, the amount of sand moving
along the bed, and the rate of bank erosion. These three variables constantly strive to reach a
balance, but never do even with a constant rate of flow.
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 219

400
immigration (mm) 200
Meander bend

0
-200
-400
0 100 200 300 400 500

Distance from origin (cm)

(a)
100
immigration (mm)

50
Meander bend

0
-50
-100
0 100 200 300 400 500

Distance from origin (cm)

(b)
100
immigration (mm)

50
Meander bend

-50

-100
0 100 200 300 400 500

Distance from origin (cm)

(c)
400
300
immigration (mm)
Meander bend

200
100
0
-100
-200
-300
0 100 200 300 400 500

Distance from origin (cm)

(d)
Fig. 1. Fully developed meandering channel patterns for various of discharge (Q) and bed
slopes (So) of the channel after 72 hrs.
220 Sediment Transport

The bends of a meandering river have limited widths and lengths. The flow and the
hydraulic properties of the meandering river, the amount of sand moving along the bed,
and the rate of bank erosion determine these limits. When a bend reaches this width, a chute
forms and a new bend develops farther downstream. Distorted bends and natural cut-offs
are caused by local changes in the character of bank materials.

2. Experimental study
A movable laboratory channel with varying slope was installed for an experimental study of
the meander evolution, for measuring the shear stress at the meandering channel, and for
studying the sediment-water interaction at meandering channel. The main channel, as
shown in Figure 1, was 10.00 meter long, 1.60 meter wide and 0.42 meter deep. There was
movable carriage on the side rails, 8.80 meter long, which was situated for measurement of
laboratory stream characteristics. Water coming from the head tank passed through the
water tranquilizer which was 1.60 meter wide and 0.26 meter long and 0.65 meter deep. On
the bottom of the channel an artificially wavy bottom was put in the middle of the straight
initial channel. While the water flow through the straight canal, experimental observations
of discharge, slope of the main channel, and shear stress distribution on the wavy bottom
were made. An analytical model of free-surface flow over an erodible bed is developed and
used to investigate the stability of the fluid-bed interface on an artificial wavy bottom, which
gives the same characteristics of the bed features by measuring the oscillatory shear stress
distribution with the hot-film sensors on the artificially wavy bottom in a laboratory canal .
The downstream reservoir for outflow with the end gate was 1.10 meter long, 1.60 meter
wide and 0.65 meter deep.
It is often considered that an irregularity in the bankline or another causing factors will
disturb the flow and cause meandering. In an effort to ascertain the fundamental causes of
meandering, a test was conducted in which a constant rate of flow was passed through a
straight channel with artificial wavy bottom and at the oscillatory boundary layer the shear
stress distribution in form of shear velocity is given in Table 1. and Figure 1.
As a result the shear stress distribution at x-coordinate is given as

τox = τo (1.0 – 0.5 cos (kx - σ)

from the experimental investigation.
The movable carriage on the side rails was very helpful for setting the profile indicator
instrument and the velocity measurement instrument for obtaining the geomorphological
and physical characteristics of meandering channels. For every run, it was easy to change
the slope, the discharge and other parameters using the laboratory channel with variable
slope.
Other test was conducted in the initial straight channel, artificially carved in uniform sandy
material, through which a constant rate of flow was passed which had a velocity of 20 cm/s
and which was sufficient to move sand along the bed and to erode the banks (Figure 2). The
sediment supplier for the feedback system lays at the entrance after the tranquilizer. The
sand collector , 0.42 mx1.60mx0.65m, was at the end of the channel. The flume channel on
the laboratory alluvial boundary layer was 8.80 meter long and had a trapezoidal cross
section, which was carved in the uniform sand of 1.35 mm of median diameter, with a
bottom width of 0.10 meter and water width of 0.20 meter and 0.10 meter depth. The end
gate from the end water tank to the sediment collector part of the channel was 0.15 meter
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 221

x/L Elevation Run.1 Run.2 Run.3 Run.4

(Distance) from bottom (τmax= 100mN/m2) (τmax= 239mN/m2) (τmax= 300mN/m2) (τmax= 390mN/m2)
(mm)
0 -5.00 0.63 1.06 1.27 1.5
0.05 -4.00 0.64 1.17 1.32 1.58
0.1 -3.00 0.655 1.30 1.40 1.77
0.15 -2.00 0.84 1.40 1.50 1.89
0.20 -1.00 0.92 1.5 1.67 1.96
0.25 0.00 0.97 1.58 1.78 2.06
0.30 1.00 1.09 1.70 1.93 2.2
0.35 2.00 1.19 1.80 2.00 2.3
0.40 3.00 1.25 1.85 2.08 2.3
0.45 4.00 1.25 1.92 2.1 2.4
0.50 5.00 1.27 1.94 2.1 2.4
0.55 4.00 1.27 1.95 2.1 2.4
0.60 3.00 1.14 1.87 2.0 2.4
0.65 2.00 1.00 1.76 2.0 2.36
0.70 1.00 0.79 1.67 1.97 2.29
0.75 0.00 0.71 1.50 1.87 2.2
0.80 -1.00 1.0 1.58 1.80 2.1
0.85 -2.00 1.0 1.40 1.58 1.9
0.90 -3.00 0.72 1.25 1.48 1.7
0.95 -4.00 0.62 1.10 1.20 1.5
1.00 -5.00 0.556 1.10 1.19 1.4

Table 1. Shear velocity distribotion on the artifically wavy boundary layer (x/L versus u*)
(Re= 15 000 and vmean=0.80 m/s)
wide and 0.15 meter high. No sand was fed at the entrance of the stream. Beginning with
these initial conditions, the photographs show that the stream developed naturally. An
initial straight channel was formed into the meandering channel on the uniform sand
bottom of the main channel. The modification of the initial straight channel into the
meandering channel took place after 320 hours of the flowing of the sand-water mixture at
the initial straight channel. This time was very long for experimentation. After every
experimental run, it was difficult to carve the initial straight channel on the meandering
deformations and to change the initial hydraulic parameters. An equilibrium condition was
reached after 32 hours from the beginning of measurements at the laboratory meandering
channel. Like an original prototype, the feed-back system of sand took place at the entrance
of the sand reservoir of the main channel. With a developing meandering channel, bed
profiles and velocities were obtained by laboratory profile indicator instruments and
velocity-measurement instruments. However, only secondary velocities were obtained. The
characteristic along the shifting sinuous channel of a meandering river (Figure 2.b and c)
which is result of the oscillatory boundary layer. The indentations along the boundaries of
the meander belt are the banklines of earlier courses. Throughout the duration of the test the
stream constantly shifted its path of flow in the mid and lower sections. It is noted in the
photographs that the degree of meandering increased downstream.
222 Sediment Transport

12
Experiment 1
10
ML/MB, ML/R
ML/MB
8
ML/R
6
4
2
0
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0
LR/ML

(a)
16
14 Experiment 2
ML/MB, ML/R

12
10 ML/MB
8 ML/R
6
4
2
0
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0
LR/ML

(b)
12
Experiment 3
10
ML/MB, ML/R

8 ML/MB

6 ML/R

4
2
0
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0
LR/ML

(c)
6
Experiment 4
5
ML/MB, ML/R

4 ML/MB

3 ML/R

2
1
0
0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0
LR/ML

(d)
Fig. 2. Relation between tortuosity ratio (ML/LR) and aspect ratios of tortuosity, ML/MB
and ML/R. ML = meander wave length, LR = meander bend length, R = meander bend, and
MB = meander bend migration.
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 223

It was observed in the laboratory that the slope of the channel increased as it developed
from the straight from through a shoaled condition to the meandering pattern, and that
these three-dimensional channel forms were associated with significantly higher sediment
transport rates than was the straight form. Due to the increasing gradient, the experimental
channel would overflow its banks at the head of the system unless steps were taken to build
up the banks to maintain a constant small freeboard. This was the standard procedure
employed in the experimental program.
The laboratory observations provided a firm evidence of the association between the cause
of meandering and an instability of sediment transport that was evidenced by the
appearance of alternate shoals. Whether that instability aroses due to fluid or was caused by
the bed sediment transport was not established by observations. Nevertheless, it was clear
that the spacing of shoals was closely related to the wavelength of the meanders. It then
follows that the spatial instability that generates alternate shoals also determines the
wavelength of meanders. If an aggrading channel is permitted to overflow its banks,
braiding occurs. Such a circumstance corresponds to a valley slope which is insufficient for
the development of the hydraulic gradient necessary to transport the discharge of sediment
and water.As the channel attempts to steepen its gradient, aggradation through sediment
deposition results in a braided system (Dietrich, et al., 1979).
The experimental set-up seems to be a good model of the prototype of a meandering river.
It reflects the development of a meandering channel on the cohesionless bottom boundary
layer, exhibiting every phase from the beginning to the end of the erosion event at the
bank and the bottom boundary layer. To determine the average sediment transport rate in
weight per unit time took much time after every experimental run, because amount of
sand was taken from the sand collector for it and one had to wait for it to dry in otoklav
(drying oven). To estimate every measured value at the sand transport curve took too
much time.
The experimental model in the present study consists of a very simple straight channel,
which showed, after some time, meander planforms on the sandy bottom of the main
channel. It was difficult to take some measurements at the meander bends. The sediment-
transport rate took place before the meandering planform occurred. From experimental
observations, it was seen that there was no sediment transport after meandering and the
stability of the flume was observed with the meandering planform. One of the limitations of
the experimental set-up was not observing the braiding planforms.
The measurement of sediment transport by weighting the dry sand amount at the end of the
flume was error prone. In the prototype there is no influence of the dried sand
transportation in the river erosion. The experimental procedure is used to find a relationship
between the sediment transport in laboratory flume and that in the main channel. The sand
transport distribution for every short time duration was not measured, although sediment
transport equations may need a detailed sand transportation curve. Also, flume erodibility
is not the only limiting factor for cross-section widening. When a cross-section becomes very
wide and shallow, its cross-sectional shape may become unstable and develop into a
number of separate, narrower channels, thus transforming into a braided or an
anabranching river. In the experimental procedure, limited runs were taken, only for
achieving the meandering planforms, but for braided or anabranching river cross-sections,
the experiment was not continued. The main channel slopes varied between 0.04% - 0.5%.
The main channel discharge varied between 0.07 l/s –0.73 l/s.Outside of this range,
224 Sediment Transport

measurements could not be made for experimental limitations. The transported bed material
weight in time was given for Q = 0.1536 l/s and J=0.08%. These values were restricted one
for the given bed-load equation and for the meander-bend equation because of laboratory
measurements difficulties. Out of this range of the main canal slope, the flow in the flume of
sandy bottom varied from subcritical form into the supercritical form. That is why, one must
provide more universal equations for bed load transport and for meandering bend planform
equations.

3. Analysis of data and discussion of results

Following the preliminary experimental results, experiments with proper discharge and
slope combinations were planned. Also, additional experiments were arranged to check the
repeatability of the meander tests and to examine the meander performance at the extremes
of steep and flat slopes. For each test, the flow had to be prepared at the beginning. This was
done according to the following procedures. (1) The bed material throughout the whole
flume was loosened. It was necessary because otherwise the sand could be cohesive and
resistant to erosion. (2) The initial straight channel and the flood plain were formed. This
was done by moving the carriage along the flume. On the carriage, a blade was fixed, which
scraped the sediment to form a smooth flood plain. Meanwhile, a properly designed
template was fixed on the blade cut into the sediment bed to form the initial channel along
the center line of the flume. The cross-section shape and area of the initial channel along the
center line of the flume were decided by the geometry of the template. The initial channel
and the flood plain created in this way assumed the same slope, declining in the
downstream direction. (3) The sediment was compacted. A certain compactness of the
sediment bed was necessary in order to prevent the sediment from being easily washed
away just as the flow entered the flume. (4) Both end-boundaries of the channel were
shaped. At both upstream and downstream ends, the initial channel boundaries had to be
carefully prepared in order to provide gradually changing sections for the entrance and exit
of water flow.
The experimental results are presented in two parts. The first part consists of a description
of what the shear stress distribution changes during the meander development. In the
second part, experimental observations of meander evolution are described qualitatively.
Generally, in the laboratory channel two different types of the meander development were
observed, with and without sediment feeding at the entrance of the channel. At the
beginning of the test when the flow front just reached the downstream end of the initial
channel, sediment transportation took place immediately in terms of bed load. The initial
flow velocity was about 40 cm/s. The eroded sediment was mostly from channel banks
rather than from the bed. About 25 minutes later, the channel width increased from the
initial width 10 cm, to 24 cm; the channel still remained straight. After another 10 minutes
ripples (length = 40 cm) could just be seen on the channel bed, and they were moving in the
flow direction with a speed of about 16 cm/s. Meanwhile, the ripple length became longer
and longer and tended to be alternate bars. When elapsed time was about 30 minutes the
ripples developed into alternate bars with an average bar length, approximately equal to 90
cm. Starting from that moment, the bed topography was dominated by the regular alternate
bars, which seemed to begin to exert some influence over the main flow. The flow direction
was changed from its initial course and diverted according to the shape of the bar
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 225

boundaries. Intensive bank erosion began to occur at the places where the flow tended to
join the bank, and deposition occurred where water flowed away from the bank.
Although the main course of the channel was still essentially straight, a sinuous thalweg
was noticeable. As the erosion at one bank and deposition at another continued a
meandering channel was created, with a regular zigzag form. Later, a meander channel
became noticeable, the meander bends started to expand in a transverse direction.
Meanwhile the bend apexes started to move in the downstream direction. The lateral bend
movement, known as bend expansion, initially progressed at a speed higher than that of the
bend’s movement in the down-valley direction which is known as the bend migration
(Figure 2 b and c). However, after about one hour, the bend expansion stopped, while the
bend migration not only continued but showed no sign of a decrease in speed. At this stage,
despite the bend migration, the meander bends assumed substantially the same size and
pattern. Hence, the meander plan form geometry became more or less constant. This
condition of a meandering river is defined as the stabilized meander.

3.1 Analysis of data in the shear stress distribution on the wavy bed
In this part of experimental procedure, a given discharge was allowed to flow in the flume
with a wavy bed. The uniformity of flow was ensured by adjusting the depth of flow
constant near the entrance and exit reaches of the flume. The oscillating shear stress
distribution on the wavy bed of the channel was measured with a hot-film-WTG-50-sensor.
A technique developed by Gust (1988) measured skin friction in flume boundary layers,
with and without suspended particulate matter, by constant temperature anemometry. The
experimental setup consisted of a 1.5 m wide and 1.5 m deep rectangular flume (10 m). The
straight length of channel had a bottom covered with artificial waves of iron plate, as the
same of the walls with wave length of 120 cm, and amplitude a=2 cm. The clear water
supply was obtained from a 5 m high overhead tank. In order to study the effect of
oscillating shear stress distribution the bottom slope was changed. In the second part of
experiments, skin friction measurements were made with an array of flush-mounted-hot-
films at 24 points on the different slopes of one of a field of two-dimensional immobile
artifically made dunes in the straight channel. The total boundary shear stress was also
measured.
With sensor scales of 3 mm and frequency responses of 20 Hz flush-mounted, epoxy-coated
hot films yielded mean and fluctuating components of wall shearing stress at different water
depths. Fluctuating components of the skin friction are present in all turbulent flows,
including those of hydrodynamically smooth walls (Eckelmann, 1974), and require
consideration in turbulent flow of calibration techniques. In experimental runs mean friction
velocities are obtained by multiplying recorded mean voltage signals by calibration
coefficients obtained through either polynomial or exponential least squares fits of the
calibration data. In turbulent flow the calibration curve of instantaneous (equal to mean)
skin friction can be expressed for constant temperature anemometry as

τ 1/2 = At E2 + Bt (1)

where the coefficients A, B are determined by a least squares fit from the shape of the
calibration curve (Hanratty and Campbell (1983)).
226 Sediment Transport

4. Comparison with previous studies

Paola (1983) used similar hot film anemometry technique to measure skin friction and close-
to-bed velocity profiles over fixed ripples of median grain size of 0.2 mm in a flume
experiment. The ripples were 1 cm high and 10 cm long. His results thus should be
comparable to those of the present study. His measurements were obtained under a range of
roughness Reynolds number Re*=Hu*/ν. He obtained the total shear velocity u* from the
energy gradient method. Estimates of this shear velocity from available velocity profiles
agreed well with the values from the energy gradient method. Skin friction shear velocity u*s
was measured at four locations on the stoss slope of a ripple and were then spatially
averaged. The data points closely follow the diagonal line, suggesting a good agreement
between the measured shear velocity and those predicted by the model. Data from Paola
(1983) and Zilker et al. (1977) show that u*s obtained from the inner boundary layer velocity
profiles relatively far above the sand bed decreases from the ripple trough to the crest. This
trend is just opposite to the u*s measured using the skin friction probes, though the spatially
averaged values of the two methods do not differ significantly. A recent study by Nelson
and Smith (1989) also shows that logarithmic fit to the whole inner boundary layer velocity
profile will underpredict u*s. Based on these findings, the inner boundary layer ripple crest
velocity profiles of Paola (1983) have been fitted to the van Karman-Prandtl equation to
obtain the profile-based skin friction shear velocity. The results of the present study and
data from previous investigations generally support the application of the shear stress
model to sand ripples for partitioning skin friction and form drag from known grain size,
ripple geometry and conventional outer boundary layer velocity profiles. Though the model
is relatively simple, it does require iterative calculations, and uncertainties exist in various
coefficients. It is preferable, therefore, to derive some overall empirical relationships
between outer boundary layer shear velocity u* and inner boundary layer skin friction shear
velocity u*s. This empirical relationship should provide approximate but easily derived
estimates of skin friction over sand dunes from known dune geometry and the outer
boundary layer shear velocity..
The ratio of the inner boundary layer shear velocity u*s and the outer boundary layer shear
velocity u* in a unidirectional flow is mainly controlled by the flow condition, grain size and
dune geometry. The flow condition is represented by the total shear velocity u* and the dune
character can be represented by the dune height H since the aspect ratio H/L is roughly
constant for natural current dunes (=0.05). Therefore, a universal empirical relationship
between the ratio u*s/u* and a flow dune parameter u*/H can be used to properly estimate
u*s from u* and H. Due to acceleration and deceleration of near-bed flows over bed forms,
flows tend to separate at the dune crest and a wake forms at the lee side of the dune
(Raudkivi, 1967) . Higher ripple steepness and low to medium flow stresses have been
found to favor this flow separation and wake development (Davies, 1980; Smith, 1977). At
low u*/H ratios (2.3), the smaller flow stress and or bigger ripple height determine that the
flow is separated and lee side wakes are fully developed. Under this condition, u*s increases
relatively faster than the form drag as flow becomes stronger. Thus, u*s/u* increases
systematically with u*/H. When the flow dune parameter u*/H is beyond the critical value
of 4.2, the flow stress becomes very strong and sand bypassing occurs. Under this condition,
the dune height is reduced and wakes start to break down, and flow is no longer fully
separated. These will cause a dramatic increase of drag and hence increase of total shear
velocity u*.
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 227

5. Conclusions
The flow resistance in a meander bend is considerably increased due to the form resistance
of the patterns about which much is not known. It depends on a number of factors including
grain friction, form resistance of two- and three dimensional patterns, skin friction of the
non-separated oscillatory component and the sediment transport rate. The following results
from the investigation were obtained:
The measured skin-friction field is consistent with a simple model for sediment transport
over bed forms, where the fluctuating skin friction is important. The data are also consistent
with the drag-partition theories of Engelund (1966) and Paola(1983). Normalized skin-
friction spectra vary with stream-wise position but not vary with Reynolds number.

6. Definition of terms
The tortuosity ratio determines the shape of meanders. For any one value of tortuosity ratio,
there are associated single values of the ratios of:
1. Length along river bend to radius of center line of bend: (LR/R)
2. Straight length along the river valley to radius of center line of bend: (ML/R);
3. Meander belt to radius of center line of bend (MB/R);
4. Angle of bend to radius of curvature (θ/R).
5. Meander length to meander belt (ML/MB)

7. Analysis
As shown in Table 1, four experiments were conducted with discharge varying from 0.08 to
0.50 l/s and slope changing from 0.08 to 0.35%. In this table, Fo is the Froude number, which
was determined using the velocity and depth measured at the extreme upstream end of the
channel. In Table 1, Re is the Reynold’s number that is computed taking kinematic viscosity
equal to 1.57x10-5 m2/s, which corresponds to the standard temperature and pressure (STP).
MBN represents the number of meander bends occurred in the initially straight channel
after 72 hrs of the experimentation. L, LR, and MB represent, respectively, the straight
channel length, total meander bend length of the channel, and the maximum migration of
the initially straight channel. Some of these terms are defined in Fig. 1. In this figure, θ is the
central angle of the meander bend and R is the radius of the bend. The resulting forms of the
meandered channel in the four experiments are shown in Figs. 2a-d, which correspond to
experiments no. 1 through 4, respectively.
It is apparent from Table 1 that the number of meander bends (MBN) increases with the
increase in either Fo or Re and vice versa. It implies that the number of meandering bends
depends on the flow regime described by the Froude and Reynold’s numbers. The ratio of
the total length of the initially straight channel, L, to the total meander length of the channel,
LR, describes the tortuosity of the meandering channel. It is an indicator of the meander
formation; if L/LR is equal to 1, the channel does not meander at all and if LR approaches
infinity, the tortuosity ratio approaches zero, implying that the tendency of a channel to
meander increases with the reduction in the tortuosity ratio and vice versa. It is seen from
table 1 that the tortuosity ratio decreases with the increase in either Fo or Re and vice versa. It
leads to inferring that the flow in the regime of low velocity and high depths allows an
alluvial channel to meander less than in the otherwise situation.
228 Sediment Transport

The above results, however, deviate much from those observed in the field and shown in
Table 2 for some rivers. The ratio L/LR for laboratory channel (Table 1) varies from 0.033 to
0.048 whereas it ranges from 0.035 to 0.582 in natural rivers, implying that the natural rivers
will meander less than the laboratory channels even though both are in the same flow
regime. It leads to inferring the prominent role of boundary conditions in meandering.
Laboratory channels are usually of restricted geometry (length and width) whereas the
natural rivers may adopt any size. The channel characteristics are connected with meander
geometry. For example, wide shallow channels exhibit lesser tortuosity than narrow deep
channels do and vice versa. Furthermore, the flow lines in the laboratory channel follow
sharper curvature than in the prototype, indicating that deeper and narrower channels
produce more acute bends (Rozovasky and Makkavuev, 1964). According to Rozovasky and
Makkavuev (1964), the velocity of flow in transverse direction that causes river meandering
is directly proportional to the depth and mean velocity of flow and inversely proportional to
the radius of curvature. It is noted that the depth and the velocity of flow governs the
regime of flow described by Fo and Re. Thus, the inference of the results from laboratory
channel is consistent with the results of earlier studies.
The above results, however, provide only an overall view of the meandering of the
laboratory channel. A discussion of the individual meander forms of all the four
experiments shown in Fig. 2 and summarized in Table 3 follows. In this table, the location
describes the location of MBN and other columns describe its corresponding ML, MB, R,
and LR. It is seen from the table that, in all the four experiments, the meander length (ML)
and the radius of curvature (R) increase with the distance. It implies that the wave length
(ML) increases in the direction of flow and vice versa. Since R also increases with ML, the
increase in ML is coupled with the increase in the meander bend migration (MB), as also
seen in Fig. 2. Thus, the meandering behavior of the laboratory channel expands in the
direction of flow. Here, it is appropriate to mention a little about the role of the initial flow
conditions that may be of significance in the process of meander development. For example,
a meandering natural river at a certain location exhibiting certain meandering characteristics
in a particular flow regime will differ significantly from the behavior of the laboratory
channel in the same flow regime. It is because of the difference in initial and boundary
conditions, which affect significantly the flow wave behavior in open channels (Mishra and
Singh, 1999). Since the ratio L/LR describes local features of channel meandering, this ratio
is sensitive to the considered river reach and, therefore, is larger in natural rivers than in
laboratory channels.
The aspect ratio defined by ratio of the length along river bend to meander length
( = LR/ML) in experiment 1 varies from 0.8 to 2.0, with most of the values near 2.0. In
experiment 2, the aspect ratio varies from 1.0 to 1.7, with most values near 1.0; it ranges
between 0.3 and 1.8 in experiment 3, and between 1.0 and 3.5 in experiment 4. The overall
average of these values is of the order of 1.5.
The experimental meandering channel developments show the relationships between
tortuosity ratio; LR/LV; and ML/R and ML/MB. Similar curves could be drawn for the
other ratios. Important channel characteristics are connected with meander geometry. Wide,
shallow channels are usually associated with lesser tortuosity. When distortion is used in
hydraulic models, flow lines are found to follow sharper curvature than in the prototype,
indicating that deeper and narrower channels produce more acute bends.
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 229

ML MB R LR LV
MB No: *ML/MB *ML/R *LR/ML
(cm) (cm) (cm) (cm) (cm)

Experiment no. 1

1 50 10 5 5.00 10.0 40 50 0.8

2 25 20 10 1.25 2.5 45 25 1.8
3 25 25 13 1.00 2.0 50 25 2.0
4 50 30 15 1.67 3.3 60 50 1.2
5 35 35 18 1.00 2.0 70 35 2.0
6 50 40 20 1.25 2.5 95 50 1.9
7 70 45 23 1.56 3.1 100 70 1.4
8 50 50 25 1.00 2.0 110 50 2.2
9 80 50 25 1.60 3.2 150 80 1.9

Experiment no. 2

1 45 8 4 6.00 12.0 75 45 1.7

2 105 15 8 7.00 15.0 100 105 1.0
3 150 25 13 6.00 12.0 150 150 1.0
4 165 38 18 4.40 9.1 200 165 1.2

Experiment no. 3

1 50 20 10 2.50 5.0 90 50 1.8

2 75 25 13 3.00 6.0 100 75 1.3
3 175 35 18 5.0 10.0 50 175 0.3
4 180 50 25 3.60 7.2 125 180 0.7

Experiment no. 4

1 10 3 2 4.00 4.2 35 10 3.5

2 30 20 10 1.50 3.0 35 30 1.2
3 30 13 6 2.40 4.8 40 30 1.3
4 50 23 11 2.22 4.4 50 50 1.0
5 40 20 10 2.00 4.0 60 40 1.5
6 55 33 16 1.69 3.4 75 55 1.4
7 65 35 18 1.86 3.7 95 65 1.5
8 60 45 23 1.33 2.7 100 60 1.7
Note: ML = meander wave length, MB = meander bend migration, R = radius of meander bend,
LV = thalweg, superscript ‘*’ indicates measures of tortuosity of the channel.

Table 3. Detailed features of the meanders in four experiments

230 Sediment Transport

From Table 1 the longest meander bend length in thalweg is given in the smallest discharge
and bed slope as in the experimental run number 1; Q= 0.08 l/s; and So=0.08%. The meander
bend number was in 500 cm length from the origin to the experimental measurements are 9.
Tortuosity number = Meander wave length/ Meander bend length was
(ML/LR = 475/15100 = 0.03146) the smallest, but meander bend migration after 72 hours
was 50 cm, the largest, because of the smallest bed slopes (So= 0.08%).
The second longest meander bend length in thalweg is given in the experimental run
number 4, which has the discharge Q=0.50 l/s; So= 0.35%. The meander bend number was in
400 cm distance in the observations from the origin was 8. The tortuosity number has the
second biggest value as: ML/LR=400/11900= 0.0336, but the meander bend migration after
72 hours was 45 cm, as the second largest migration.
The third biggest tortuosity number (ML/LR=500/11300= 0.044) belongs to the third
experimental run, with Q= 0.40 l/s, and So= 0.20 %, which has altogether 4 meander bend
numbers.
From the figure of fully developed meandering channel patterns for various discharges (Q)
and bed slopes (So) of the channel after 72 hours are given below results:
a. Figure (a) and (d) show similar trends, and (b) and (c) have no much meander bends.
b. After 72 hours of the experimental run the boundary layer material is compacted and
does not show many changes in small bed slopes like at the experimental run (a). If we
change the slope from So= 0.10%, and So= 0.20% to So= 0.35% and the discharges from
Q=0.08 l/s, and Q= 0.20 l/s, and Q= 0.40 l./s to Q=0.50 l/s, and So= 0.35% it is observed
the planform changes like at the beginning of the experiments, because the compactness
of the sand material is too much after 72 hours.
From the Table 1, meander bend migration after 72 hours is only 50 cm like in the first
experimental run, but the smaller meander bend number as 4 is the same with the
experimental run in number 2 with Q= 0.20 l/s, and So= 0.10 %, but the tortuosity number is
with ML/LR= 500/10500= 0.0476 is the biggest one, because second experimental run has
the shortest meander bend length in thalweg like totally 10500 cm. It means if the meander
bend length in thalweg (LR) is shorter, it has the biggest tortuosity number as
ML/LR=500/10500=0.0476.
From the Table 2, giving the details of all features of meanders, the biggest ratios of ML/MB
and ML/R for tortuosity grade, the second experimental run shows with Q= 0.20 l/s, and
slope as So= 0.10%, ML/MB= 6 and ML/R=12, which has the meander bend number as 4.
The second largest values (ML/MB=5) and ML/R=10 value is given in the experiment
number 1, by Q=0.08 l/s; and So= 0.08 %, which has meander bend number as 9. These
comparisons show that there is no necessity for having the largest meander bend number
for large tortuosity ratios.
The third tortuosity ratio belongs to the experimental run number: 4, with Q=0.50 l/s; with
slope So= 0.35%, which has the tortuosity ratio ML/MB=4 and ML/R= 4.166 at the first
meander bend. The last values at the fourth experimental run with bend number as 8, which
has ML/MB=1.33 ratio and ML/R=2.66 are the smallest in comparing with the other
experimental runs. The first experimental run has the biggest meander wave number as 9,
number 2 has 4 and number 3 has also 4, but the last run has also 8 meander bends. It
means, if the boundary layer material is compacted after the 72 hours, it has the biggest
discharge as Q=0.50 l/s, and the biggest slopes as So= 0.35%. It means for more tortuosity
ratios we need the biggest discharge and the biggest bed slope in laboratory conditions.
Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 231

Comparison of the laboratory meander tortuosity with the natural river meander tortuosity:
Data is taken from Langbein and Leopold (1966) for the natural river meander tortuosity
and gives the below results: The prototype for the laboratory meanders is choosen as San
Juan River, Utah, and has this values:

ML MB R
(miles) (miles) (miles)
1.2 2.4 2.0
1.8 2.7 2.3
2.2 2.9 2.5

The tortuosity ratio is ML/MB = 1.2/2.4 = 0.5 and the other ratio is ML/R = 1.2/2.0 = 0.6
Comparing these values with the laboratory values, the laboratory meanders are not well
developed because of the canal bottom slope, but in natural meander bends, with the whole
developed bends the tortuosity ratio is too small, when comparing with the laboratory data,
ML/MB = 6 and ML/R = 5 and natural data gives 10 times smaller values.

Experiment L Discharge Slope LR MB

Fo *Re MBN L/LR
No. (cm) (l/s) (%) (cm) (cm)
1 500 0.08 0.08 0.040 12658 9 15100 0.033 50
2 500 0.20 0.10 0.010 3165 4 10500 0.048 38
3 500 0.40 0.20 0.020 6329 4 11300 0.044 50
4 500 0.50 0.35 0.025 7911 8 11900 0.042 45
Note: Fo = Froude number, Re = Reynold’s number, MBN = number of peaks and troughs of the channel
after meandering, L = straight channel length, LR = meander bend length, MB = largest meander bend
migration, and L/LR = tortuosity number. *kinematic viscosity is taken equal to 0.157x10-6 m2/s.
Table 1. Meandering characteristics of the laboratory channel

Slope L LR
River Location MBN L/LR MB
% (mile) (mile)
San Juan Utah - 4 0.43 0.739 0.582 200 ft
Popo Agie Wyoming 0.20 3 0.24 0.426 0.563 150 ft
Mississippi Greenville - 3 5.00 19.00 0.263 3.6
Potomac West - 3 6.63 14.25 0.465 il
1.5
Pole Creek Vi i i
Wyoming 0.21 2 0.14 3.978 0.035 il ft
300
Note: MB No. = number of peaks and troughs of the channel after meandering, L = straight channel
length, LR = meander bend length, MB = largest meander bend migration, and L/LR = tortuosity
number. *kinematic viscosity is taken equal to 0.157x10-6 m2/s. ‘-‘ implies not available
Table. 2. Meandering characteristics of some natural meandering rivers
232 Sediment Transport

ML MB LR LV
MB No: R (cm) *ML/MB *ML/R *LR/MB
(cm) (cm) (cm) (cm)

Experiment no. 1

1 50 10 5 5.00 10.0 40 50 0.8

2 25 20 10 1.25 2.5 45 25 1.8
3 25 25 13 1.00 2.0 50 25 2.0
4 50 30 15 1.67 3.3 60 50 1.2
5 35 35 18 1.00 2.0 70 35 2.0
6 50 40 20 1.25 2.5 95 50 1.9
7 70 45 23 1.56 3.1 100 70 1.4
8 50 50 25 1.00 2.0 110 50 2.2
9 80 50 25 1.60 3.2 150 80 1.9

Experiment no. 2

1 45 8 4 6.00 12.0 75 45 1.7

2 105 15 8 7.00 15.0 100 105 1.0
3 150 25 13 6.00 12.0 150 150 1.0
4 165 38 18 4.40 9.1 200 165 1.2

Experiment no. 3

1 50 20 10 2.50 5.0 90 50 1.8

2 75 25 13 3.00 6.0 100 75 1.3
3 175 35 18 5.0 10.0 50 175 0.3
4 180 50 25 3.60 7.2 125 180 0.7

Experiment no. 4

1 10 3 2 4.00 4.2 35 10 3.5

2 30 20 10 1.50 3.0 35 30 1.2
3 30 13 6 2.40 4.8 40 30 1.3
4 50 23 11 2.22 4.4 50 50 1.0
5 40 20 10 2.00 4.0 60 40 1.5
6 55 33 16 1.69 3.4 75 55 1.4
7 65 35 18 1.86 3.7 95 65 1.5
8 60 45 23 1.33 2.7 100 60 1.7
Note: ML = meander wave length, MB = meander bend migration, R = radius of meander bend,
LV = thalweg, superscript ‘*’ indicates measures of tortuosity of the channel.

Table 3. Detailed features of the meanders in four experiments

Modeling of Developed Meanders of an Alluvial Channel 233

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 12

Evolution of Ripple Field

Architecture during Sediment
Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning
Long Bernard and Montreuil Stéphane
Centre Eau Terre Environnement
Institut national de la recherche scientifique
Université du Québec
Canada

1. Introduction
Despite the advent of ever more sophisticated technologies, the study of sediment transport
remains highly relevant. Ongoing climate change adds urgency to the need to understand
phenomena governing sediment transport. During sediment movement, the architecture of
the sediment bed evolves (Nummedal et al., 1993; Allen and Posamentier, 1994; Van
Wagoner, 1995). This chapter focuses on the fundamental processes involved in sediment
transport and aims to define and characterize the evolution of the water-sediment mixture
in a migrating sand ripple field under a stationary flow regime, from the flow surface to the
base of the sediment bed. In an experimental sediment flume with attached computed
tomography (CT)-scanner, the sediment density of a ripple field was studied at different
phases of its architectural evolution using three- and four-dimensional X-ray scanning,
under several flow regimes and with different grain sizes. This approach yielded a detailed
understanding of the parameters involved in transport of sand-grade sediment.

2. Methods
This study used two hydraulic flumes. One was a vertical, closed-loop flume 3048 mm long
and 1219 mm high designed by Teeter and Pankow (1989). The inner rectangular section of
the flume (152 mm by 304 mm) passed through the mobile gantry of a computed
tomography (CT)-scanner. The lower part of the tunnel was partly filled with a 30 mm-thick
layer of C-109 Ottawa sand (0.37 mm grain size, with bulk dry density of 1.56 g•cm-³). The
flow regime was adjusted by an electrical motor to 25 cm•s-1 and controlled by a Doppler
flow meter (Controlotron 1010N). For more details of this apparatus, see Montreuil (2006).
In this flume experiment, the volume element (voxel) chosen was 0.39 mm by 0.60 mm by
1.00 mm. Typical density profiles along the ripple bed were extracted from the CT-scanner
measurement matrix of 512 x 512 x 512 voxels and a 305 x 305 x 200 mm volume.
The second flume was an open acrylic flume (300 x 300 x 7000 mm) looped by a pump with
1.51 m3•min-1 capacity. The rectangular section of the flume (300 x 300 mm), passed through
the mobile gantry of the CT-scanner (Fig. 1). The steady flow, measured by a Controlotron
238 Sediment Transport

1010 Doppler flow meter, was controlled by a PID regulator using a pneumatic valve
installed in the pump looping circuit. Three flow velocities and two grain sizes were used to
confirm the existence of several points and zones and to identify their respective locations
over a ripple. To create a natural sand column, the flume base was sand-blasted, as
recommended by Madsen and Durham (2007), and was filled with a 50 mm-thick sand
layer. The CT-scanner was able to accommodate a large open-channel flume scanner (300 x
300 x 7000 mm; Fig. 2) and allowed continuous measurement of both suspended and
bedload sediment, without hydraulic interference on the water or sediment, for the 512 x
512 x 1500 mm voxel matrix. In the open-flume experiment, the voxel dimensions were 0.6 x
0.6 x 0.6 mm.

Fig. 1. CT-scanner gantry moving along the flume on four parallel rails and open-channel
flume fixed on the examination table.
The CT-scanner imagery corresponds to a 3D linear X-ray attenuation voxel image (Fig. 2).
The instantaneous slice group measured forms a volumetric 3D matrix (Fig. 3). X-ray
attenuation is a function of the material density, its effective atomic number, and the
analyzed sample thickness. Although Duliu (1999) indicated that four effects characterize X-
ray interaction with a material, medical CT-scanners, which use energy below 150 keV,
exhibit only two of these effects: the photoelectric and Compton effects. In this type of
study, the photoelectric effect dominates (Moore, 2004).
In this study, two different techniques were used to undertake pseudo-instantaneous
measurement (Lagrangian) and time-evolution measurement (Eulerian). The global volume
technique (GVT) uses the CT-scanner to measure a large volume, giving a picture at a
specific moment (Lagrangian) (Fig. 2). This technique, used by Montreuil (2006) and
Montreuil and Long (2007), gives a 3D image of the entire sand ripple with a maximum
available length of 1500 mm. The global volume technique is useful in comparing all
densimetric profiles over a sand ripple within 90 s for a 1500 mm-long bedform. To measure
an entire ripple, the CT-scanner needs to move along the flume. The simultaneous motion of
the CT-scanner gantry and the fluid inside the flume reveals an uncertainty due to moving
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 239

sediment during X-ray integration. The global single-volume technique is, therefore, a
pseudo-instantaneous measurement technique.
The second technique, the periodic single volume technique (PSVT), provides an Eulerian
representation of the internal bedload architecture constancy during sand ripple migration.

Fig. 2. Three-dimensional X-ray image of a sediment bed 300 mm wide by 300 mm high by
900 mm long, formed from 1500 slices of 512 x 512 pixels.

Fig. 3. CT-scanner measurement volume formed from 64 slices 0.6 mm thick at 0.6 mm
intervals. Each slice has a resolution of 512 x 512 pixels and the set forms a volume of 300 x
300 x 18 mm.
To perform this measurement, a volume formed from thirty slices (each 300 x 300 x 0.6 mm)
was measured, keeping the same flume position (i.e., the CT-scanner gantry remained
immobile). The volume, including the sand ripple bed and the water column, was measured
instantaneously by the 64 CT-scanner line of sensors. Each volume was measured with a
time-space ∆t sample in seconds or minutes depending on ripple migration velocity,
yielding the density of the ripple moving across a spatially fixed volume (Fig. 4).
The flume axes were defined as follows: x for the flow direction, y for the horizontal cross-
section, and z for the flume height (including both sediment and water column).
240 Sediment Transport

Various other methods have been used to measure bedform propagation, including
stereophotogrammetry (Sternberg, 1967), direct measurement (Langhorne, 1981), high-
resolution echo-sounding (McLean, 1983), and ripple-shadowing (Wilkinson et al., 1985).

Fig. 4. Acrylic flume passing through the immobile CT-scanner gantry yielding a
measurement volume of 300 x 300 x 18 mm.
Medical CT-scanners can be used to measure relative density of materials such as sand
layers in sedimentological studies (Duliu, 1999; Ketcham and Carlson, 2001; Mees et al.,
2003; Duchesne et al., 2006). Relative density values measured vary from -1024 to +3071
Hounsfield units (HU; Kak and Slaney, 1999). Air and water values are -1000 HU and 0 HU,
respectively (Ketcham and Carlson, 2001). The quartz sand used has a density similar to that
of human bone (1477 HU) and spinal core (1609 HU; Schneider et al., 1996). Density
measurements were converted to g•cm-³. The following equation was used to convert and
correct the beam-hardening and Beer’s law effects of X-ray measurements (ASTM, 1992):

2
⎛ HU+1024 ⎞ ⎛ HU+1024 ⎞
ρs = 0,0257 ⎜ ⎟ + 1,0209 ⎜ ⎟ − 0,0254 (1)
⎝ 1000 ⎠ ⎝ 1000 ⎠
where ρs is the density of the fluid-sediment mixture inside the flume and HU is the relative
density measured by the CT-scanner.
To validate the confidence level of the data, a standard deviation was calculated for each
section of the ripple using a group of profiles. The results indicate a standard deviation of
0.018 g•cm-³ for the water column, which reflects turbulence and Brownian motion (Brown,
1828) for zero-velocity measurement. For the suspended-transport zone, the standard
deviation of 0.022 g•cm-³ is due to the turbulence, bed proximity, and heterogeneous
concentration of suspended sediment. At the interface between suspended load and the
upper bedload transport zone, the standard deviation reaches a maximum of 0.023 g•cm-³.
This high value indicates the presence of air bubbles trapped in the sand and a difference in
the degree of compaction between the different laminations.
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 241

For the water column, the concentration of sediment in water was calculated using the
Bridge and Demicco (2008) equation,

ρs − ρ (2)
C=
ρmix − ρ
where ρmix is the density of the sediment-water mixture, ρs is the sediment density, and ρ is
the water density at the experimentation temperature.
The suspended load, located between the reattachment point and the separation point, is
calculated using dynamic viscosity profiles defined in the Bridge and Demicco (2008) equation:

μs = μ (1 + 2.5C + 6.25C 2 + 15.26C 3 ) (3)

where µ is the pure fluid viscosity and C is the sediment concentration.

Fig. 5. Definition of sand ripple “sections,” after Reineck and Singh (1975). (A) Sand ripple
form is defined by a succession of deterministic points. (B) Sand ripple is divided into
erosional and depositional zones.

Fig. 6. Definition of sand ripple “sections,” after Reineck and Singh (1975). The internal
structure of the sand ripple consists of three lamina sets.
This study used the sedimentological definitions of Reineck and Singh (1975; Figs. 5 and 6).
Ripple zones are detailed in Figure 7. Reineck and Singh (1975) defined sediment
242 Sediment Transport

parameters by delineating and naming distinct zones and points in the formation of a sand
ripple. Values for parameters were assigned based on measurable or observable attributes at
a given time. Ripple “zones” are defined perpendicular to layering, whereas the ripple
“section” is defined according to horizontal location.

Fig. 7. Definition of sand ripple “sections”: turbulent section (contains vortices), viscous
sublayer section (also called the pure transport section), depositional section, and, within the
turbulent section, a sediment unpacking section (also called the erosion section). Adapted
from Bridge and Demicco (2008) and based on Bennett and Best (1995).
Montreuil and Long (2007) emphasized the presence of a maximum point, at which the
density along the ripple reaches a maximum value. A ripple grows by deposition of
successive foreset laminae that avalanche down the lee side of the ripple. Foreset laminae
are constantly being eroded on the stoss side of each ripple during ripple migration; some of
this remobilized sediment moves by bedload and defines stoss-side laminae that are nearly
perpendicular to the foreset laminae. Reineck and Singh (1975) identified a static foreset
lamina field that is constantly eroded and stoss-side laminae which consist of sediment in
continuous motion.
Other definitions, including crest and trough concepts, are from Tucker (2001) and Bridge
and Demicco (2008), who described the formation of current ripples (Figs. 7 and 8). The
formulation of fluvial-type processes in a flume (Yalin, 1992) and the sediment transport
mechanics associated with current ripples (Yalin, 1977) have been clearly stated and are the
foundation for the definitions in this study. Kastaschuk and Villard (2001) proposed a
conceptual model for suspended load flow, in which the internal boundary layer meets the
viscous sublayer and the wake region is not characterized by vortical activity. Middleton
and Southard (1977) proposed a schematic definition of shear stress and pressure relative to
the flow velocity profile and profile position. Finally, Allen (1968, 1984) provided a general
picture of sandy sediment-depositional systems that is the starting point of this work.
In general, the internal geometry of a ripple is a consequence of the forces acting at the
beginning on stationary and moving fluids, and corresponds to the relationship between
velocity and pressure in a moving fluid, as described by the Bernoulli equation. Flow over a
ripple field, however, is not laminar, but turbulent. The transition between laminar shear
flow and turbulent shear flow is produced by turbulent eddies. Such eddies are critical to
bedform formation and evolution. Turbulent shear flow is due to the addition of a viscous
shear stress like that defined in the Reynolds equation.
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 243

Fig. 8. Complementary general sand ripple definition, after Tucker (2001).

Fig. 9. Main structural features of turbulent boundary layers (after Bridge and Demicco,
2008, and modified from Bridge, 2003).
The turbulent boundary layer in steady, uniform, turbulent flow is a function of bottom
friction. Friction at the solid boundary of the water flow (Fig. 9) causes a reduction in flow
velocity near the boundary. The main structural features of the turbulent boundary layer
define three zones (Bridge, 2003). Very close to the sediment is a viscous sublayer a few
millimeters thick. This basal layer is overlain by a buffer zone called the inner zone, which
consists of a turbulence-generating region. The uppermost layer is the full-turbulence zone,
which is referred to as the outer zone. The boundary between the viscous sublayer and the
inner zone is defined by

10ϑ
δy = (4)
U∗

The boundary between the two turbulent zones is defined by

244 Sediment Transport

δ y = 40ϑ U∗ (5)

where υ is the kinematic viscosity and U* is the shear velocity, defined as

U∗ = (τ 0 ρ ) (6)

whereτ0 is the mean fluid shear stress at the bed and ρ is the fluid density.
The three zones are not uniformly distributed above the ripple bed during sediment
transport because U* is not constant. The present work illustrates this variation empirically.

3. Definitions
3.1 Three-dimensional sedimentological architecture of a sand ripple field
Density profiles were examined using the classical approach of separating and isolating the
suspended load from the bedload, as done by Carmenen and Larson (2004). The density
profiles provided by the 3D matrix were analyzed continuously from the water surface to the
bedload base. A typical density profile (Fig. 10) depicts transport zones that are delimited by
characteristic density points. More details are available in Montreuil and Long (2011b).

Density profile definition

250

Water surface
200

USP
Height (mm)

150
MDP
UBTZ/IZ
VSP LDP
STZ
100
FDP
VSZ
MBTZ
50
LBTZ
Flume base
0
1 1,2 1,4 1,6 1,8 2 2,2
Density (g.cm-3)

Fig. 10. Typical density profile of a sand ripple, as measured by the CT-scanner.
Starting in the upper water column, a typical curve of sediment column density encounters
the upper suspension point (USP), where clear water (washload) is distinguished from
suspended load by the latter’s higher density (above 1.05 g•cm-³; Fig. 10). The upper
suspension point may be at the water surface if turbulent flow has generated a high
sediment transport rate.
The suspended transport zone (STZ) contains a significant amount of suspended sediment
and may include a viscous sublayer.
The point separating the suspended load and the bedload is the frontier density point (FDP).
This point is used as a reference concentration, but is not synonymous with the ripple
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 245

surface. Instead, it is at the maximum density point (MDP) at the base of the suspended
zone, as defined later in the text.
The suspended transport zone includes the viscous sublayer zone (VSZ) (section 3.2), which
is defined by its low density, high viscosity, and obvious distinction from the bedform. The
viscous sublayer zone contains a viscous sublayer point, defined as the point of highest
density and viscosity. When a viscous sublayer zone is present, the viscous sublayer point
(VSP) can be used as a reference concentration instead of the frontier density point. The
upper bedload transport zone (UBTZ) is delimited by the frontier density point at the top
and the maximum density point at its base. Sediment in the upper bedload transport zone
moves as a thin lower-density layer around low density points, and is characterized at its
base by the maximum density point, an abnormally high-density point at which hydraulic
pressure is linked to bed density. The maximum density point is the top of the bed sensu
stricto and is the upper limit of shear stress lamination of the inner bed. Evolution of the
maximum density point affects the lee-side avalanching process and stoss-side erosion
because of fluid-related effects.
Below the maximum density point is a lower density point (LDP), characterized by water-
rich sediment (less compaction) in which fluid pressure favors sediment mobility. The lower
density point forms part of the inner bed shear stress lamination structure (Madsen and
Durham, 2007).
Below the upper bedload transport zone is the middle bedload transport zone (MBTZ), with
an upper limit at the maximum density point and a lower boundary at the lower density
point. The middle bedload transport zone and upper bedload transport zone move on the
low-density layer that forms around the lower density point.
Within the upper bedload transport zone is an inflection zone (IZ) that increases the
thickness of the upper bedload transport zone across a hinge point or inflection density
point close to the maximum density point. The inflection zone is due to lee-side avalanching
and to water penetration caused by vortices located over the ripple unpacking section.
The last transport zone, the lower bedload transport zone (LBTZ) consists of a succession of
layers (Wheatcroft, 2002) that move under fluid pressure induced deep in the bed (Madsen
and Durham, 2007), and by an inner bedload shear stress, which causes high-density sheet
sliding on low-density layers produced by water-filled porosity.

3.2 New definitions and locations of boundary layers

Bridge and Demicco (2008) explained attributes of the boundary layer using a solid ripple
surface. In the present study, however, measurements show that upper bedload transport
zone thickness and bedload density variation indicate pseudo-liquefaction and water
ejection along part of the ripple (Figs. 21 and 22 (section 5.4)).
Water penetration through the boundary requires that the y-axis be modified such that
motion below the boundary is included (Madsen and Durham, 2007); this also demands a
different definition of the viscous sublayer environment.
Based on the sedimentological architecture previously defined in section 3.1, the upper
bedload transport zone thickness is compared with the maximum density point forming the
bedload sensu stricto. The results (Fig. 11) indicate low-density erosion (1.75 to 2.25 g•cm-³)
for 8 to 12 mm of thickness, where the water penetrates deeply into the bedform (Montreuil
and Long, 2011a). This transportation, on the upper part of the ripple’s stoss-side, is near the
surface (4 to 8 mm) and is characterized by higher density (2.00 to 2.25 g•cm-³) where and
when the water leaves the bedform.
246 Sediment Transport

On the lee side of ripples, results indicate phase recovery of the water rather than
deposition. Within the sediment column, which is 4 to 14 mm thick depending on location,
density was 2.00 to 2.35 g•cm-³ with an average of 2.20 g•cm-³, indicating expulsion of
water.

Erosion section Pure transport section Deposition section

20 20 20

18 18 18

16 16 16
UBTZ thickness (mm)

UBTZ thickness (mm)

UBTZ thickness (mm)

14 14 14

12 12 12

10 10 10

8 8 8

6 6 6

4 4 4

2 2 2

0 0 0
1.5 2 2.5 1.5 2 2.5 1.5 2 2.5
3 3 3
Density (g/cm ) Density (g/cm ) Density (g/cm )
Fig. 11. Upper bedload transport zone (UBTZ) thickness as a function of the maximum
density point (MDP) value, for three ripples.

100

150

P94 P207
200 P167
P160 P220
Height (pixel of 0.6 mm)

250

300

350

400

450

500
100 150 200 250
Profile number (0.6 mm thick at each 0.6 mm)

Fig. 12. X-ray image of the sand ripple (2008-No27-G), pixel size: 0.6 mm, d50: 124 μm, and
flow: 19 cm•s-1. The partial gray-scale density image measured using the global volume
technique provides a general view for 195 of the 512 density profiles (P94 is the 94th of 512
profiles).
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 247

4. Influence of flow on the vertical density profile definition along the ripple
length.
4.1 Hydraulic effect on the density profile
Hydraulic phenomena over sand ripples govern the density profiles of sediment-water
mixtures (Fig. 12). Measurements were conducted using the global volume technique to
obtain a pseudo-instantaneous image.
An upper suspension point with density above 1.05 g•cm-³ indicates washload in the water
column or suspended load in the suspended transport zone (Fig. 10). The difference
between the upper suspension zone and the frontier density point gives the suspended load
height, the concentration, and the viscosity profile measured by the CT-scanner in each
voxel. The frontier density point, located near the ripple surface, is the boundary between
bedload and suspended load and has a density between 1.05 and 1.18 g•cm-³ depending on
the sediment suspension, vortices, separation point, and re-attachment point. This point is
used as a reference elevation for concentration when the viscous sublayer is absent.

4.1.1 Effect on the stoss side

Density profile P220 (Fig. 13) shows a vortex 18.4 mm in diameter. The size of this vortex in
subsequent profiles indicates its shape, located between 69.5 and 87.9 mm in the turbulent
section. In the turbulent section, a second suspended transport zone is present, indicating
continuous transport.

Fig. 13. Sand ripple density profile P207 shows a viscous sublayer, and density profile P220
indicates continuous transport above a vortex. (GVT; ripple ID: 2008-No27-G).
The presence of an inflection density point high on the stoss side (Fig. 13, P207-P220)
indicates the presence of a saturated sediment layer that is part of the upper bedload
transport zone. The maximum density point of 2.0 to 2.3 g•cm-³ is generated by hydraulic
pressure near the surface on the lower part of the stoss side; its location is deeper within the
sediment with increased height on the ripple and along the lee side of the ripple. The
maximum density point indicates the point of traction within an area of minimum
saturation.
Profile P94 (Fig. 14) indicates the absence of a viscous sublayer and the concentration of
suspended sediment (Fig. 14, left). Separation section profiles are near the brinkpoint in
association with the fluid separation point (Fig. 13).
Density profiles (Fig. 15, left) present the transition between a fully developed vortex and a
viscous sublayer higher on the stoss side (Fig. 15, right) (Allen, 1982). The appearance of a
248 Sediment Transport

viscous sublayer (Fig. 15, right) indicates re-attachment of the fluid (Fig. 8). The location of
this point is influenced by current velocity and the shape of the sand ripple.

Fig. 14. Concentration and velocity profile after Liu (2001), and sand ripple density profile
P94, presenting a classical log concentration profile. (GVT; ripple ID: 2008-No27-G).

Fig. 15. Sand ripple density profiles P160 and P167, including the transition from a vortical
section to a fully developed viscous sublayer and associated water ejection. (GVT; ripple ID:
2008-No27-G).
On profile P167 (Fig. 15, right), the viscous sublayer zone and upper bedload transport zone
are about 1.8 mm and 3.6 mm thick, respectively. The viscous sublayer is thinner than the
upper bedload transport zone, but its water-sediment density variations are different,
ranging from 1.37 to 1.24 g•cm-³ for the viscous sublayer zone and 2.15 to 1.24 g•cm-³ for the
upper bedload transport zone, indicating mainly suspended transport due to fluid pressure
and velocity influencing the bedload erodibility.
Comparison of density profiles P207 and P220 (Fig. 13) indicates modification of fluid
behavior representing a separation position over the ripple. Profile P207 shows a viscous
sublayer, but profile P220 does not (Fig. 13). Density at the frontier density point retreats
near the water density (1.024 g•cm-³) and becomes 1.168 g•cm-³. This thin layer (Fig. 13, left)
represents a viscous sublayer between the suspended transport zone, whereas the upper
bedload transport zone represents a thicker layer containing vortical perturbations that
affect the lee sides of the ripples (Fig. 13, right).
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 249

4.1.2 Effect on the lee side

From the ripple crest to the top of the lee side, the thickness of the upper bedload transport
zone increases from 6.5 to 13.7 mm, a change that is linked to the avalanching process (Fig.
13, P220). Density regression of the lower density point indicates the upper erosion limit of
the previous foreset on the stoss side and deposition on the lee side. The presence of an
inflection density point on the lee side (Fig. 10, P94) shows the presence of a saturated layer
caused by avalanching. On the lee side, density changes from 2.3 to 1.9 g•cm-³.

4.2 Thickness variation in sand ripple transport zones

Each of the transport zones presented in section 3.1 has its own characteristic thickness and
evolution. These typical characteristics are described below, beginning in the water column
(Fig. 16).

80
Depositional - lee-side Pure transport - stoss- Erosional - stoss-side
70
Height from flume bottom (mm)

60

50

40

30
STZ

20 UBTZ

MBTZ
10
LBTZ

0
1 7 13 19 25 31 37 43 49 55 61 67 73 79 85 91 97 103 109 115

Time (x 30 sec.)

Fig. 16. Composition of the sand ripple transport zone. (PSVT; ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).
The suspended transport zone thickness along the ripple remains relatively stable at 21 mm,
when the upper suspension point is chosen at 1.18 g•cm-³. Below the suspended transport
zone, the upper bedload transport zone is at about 6.1 mm on the lee side. This thicker zone
is associated with an inflection zone correlated with a thicker middle bedload transport zone
(approximately 3 mm). Inside the upper bedload transport zone, the shear-stress decreases
vertically in inverse proportion to the water concentration, which governs the viscosity and
consequently the degree of sediment transport or deposition.
In the pure transport area on the stoss side (Montreuil and Long, 2011a), the middle bedload
transport zone and upper bedload transport zone are thinner (2 and 4 mm, respectively).
These thicknesses indicate a weak fluid influence due to protection by the viscous sublayer
zone.
250 Sediment Transport

During erosion under vortical action, thickness of the upper bedload transport zone reaches
10 mm, and that of the middle bedload transport zone is 2 mm, with a standard deviation of
2 mm. These values are caused by strong vortices active on the lower stoss side and by
micro-turbulence around the reattachment point. The transport zone thickness varies along
the ripple as a function of hydrodynamic variations, indicating that variable compaction is
taking place deep in the ripple interior.

5. Bedload density parameters and their relation to hydrodynamics.

5.1 Effect over the lower stoss-side section
In erosional areas P90 to P160 and P150 to P180 (Fig. 17), vortex pressure causes an
augmentation of suspension just above the bedload and a reduction of density, or
liquefaction, which helps the sediment unpack, resulting in suspended load. When leaving
the erosional section (P140), as compared to the previous profile (P150), the slope of the
upper bedload transport zone transition approaches the horizontal, indicating an absence of
sediment passing from bedload to suspended load. Profile P140 is approximately in a pure
transport section.
In the part of the vortex in which the current is directed downward, the suspended
sediment concentration is low. Sediment concentration increases in the lower, horizontal
part of the vortex, between the downward and upward movement. The highest sediment
concentration is in the part of the vortex where water movement is upward (Montreuil and
Long, 2011a).

FDP position and Density profile evolution during migration period

60
Ripple surface height (mm)

50

40

30

20

10
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Time (x 30 sec.)

P40 P50 P60 P140 P150 P160 P170 P180

height for flume bottom (mm)

200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200

150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150

100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2
3
Density (g/cm )

Fig. 17. Frontier density point, upper part of upper bedload transport zone (above), and
sand ripple density profiles measured with periodic single volume technique (below).
Profiles P40 to P60 and P140 to P180 are located in the erosional section of the lower stoss
side. (PSVT; ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 251

(a). P10 - Magnification (b). P30 - Magnification (c). P110 - Magnification (d). P130 - Magnification
100 100 100 100

90 90 90 90

80 80 80 80
height for flume bottom (mm)

70 70 70 70

60 60 60 60

50 50 50 50

40 40 40 40

30 30 30 30

20 20 20 20

10 10 10 10

0 0 0 0
1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2

Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3)

Fig. 18. Magnification of density profiles P10 (viscous sublayer section), P30 (vortex section),
P110 (pure transport section with viscous sublayer), and P130 (between vortex and viscous
sublayer section). (PSVT; ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).

FDP position and Density profile evolution during migration period

60
Ripple surface height (mm)

50

40

30

20

10
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Time (x 30 sec.)

P10 P20 P30 P40 P100 P110 P120 P130

height for flume bottom (mm)

200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200

150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150

100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2
Density (g/cm3)

Fig. 19. Frontier density point and upper part of the upper bedload transport zone (above)
and sand ripple density profiles measured with the periodic single volume technique
(below). Profiles P10 to P40 are located in the erosional section (middle stoss side) and
profiles P100 to P130 are located in the pure transport section (upper stoss side). (PSVT;
ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).
252 Sediment Transport

5.2 Effect over the upper stoss-side section

The transition from erosional profile P40 (Fig. 18) to pure transport profile P10 (Fig. 19) is
marked by density variation in the upper bedload transport zone (0.56 g•cm-³ at P40 to 0.78
g•cm-³ at P10). This increased upper bedload transport zone density transition, indicated by
a frontier density point reduction (0.06 g•cm-³) and a maximum density point increase (0.16
g•cm-³), signifies a reduction in liquefaction, followed by unpacking. This transition
corresponds to the disappearance of the vortex and change to a pure transport section with
a thin upper bedload transport zone. Profiles P100 (4.72 mm) to P130 (8.26 mm) contain a
viscous sublayer zone (Fig. 19, P110) and a maximum density point that decreases from 1.97
to 1.93 g•cm-³ as fluid pressure is decreased.

5.3 Effect over the lee-side section

Profiles P180 to P200 (Fig. 20) confirm a density evolution that is related to avalanching, and
profiles P60 to P100 depict the transition from suspended load to bedload settling. This
transition is characterized by an increase in bedload density (1.73 to 1.93 g•cm-³) and
decrease in reference concentration Ca (1.25 to 1.14 g•cm-³). Bedload density near the flume
bottom remains roughly constant, with slight variation due to compaction.

FDP position and Density profile evolution during migration period

60
Ripple surface height (mm)

50

40

30

20

10
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200
Time (x 30 sec.)
P60 P70 P80 P90 P100 P180 P190 P200
height for flume bottom (mm)

200 200 200 200 200 200 200 200

150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150

100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

50 50 50 50 50 50 50 50

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2
Density (g/cm3)

Fig. 20. Frontier density point for the upper part of the upper bedload transport zone
(above) and sand ripple density profiles measured with the periodic single volume
technique (below). Profiles P60 to P100 and P180 to P200 are from the depositional sides (lee
sides) of ripples and record evolution of suspended load and bedload density in the lee side
(PSVT; ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).
The lower part of the lee side differs from the upper part in having a lower bedload density
(1.71 g•cm-³) indicating weak compaction at the base. The upper lee side is dominated by a
high frontier density point value of 1.16 g•cm-³, as compared to 1.25 g•cm-³ for the base, and
has a higher maximum density point, which resulted from compaction during the 900 s (15
min) time interval that separated P60 from P90. Through this time interval (periodic single
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 253

volume technique), the internal structure of the bedload remains similar, but the bedload
density value, from the base to the top, varies as a function of sediment compaction in the
lower position and in response to fluid pressure near the surface. The sediment matrix is,
therefore, under the influence of both phenomena.

5.4 Effect over the three main sections

The surface of a sand ripple has three main sections: an erosional section, a pure transport
section, and a depositional section (Montreuil and Long, 2011a). The most important
difference among those sections is water penetration depth (Fig. 21). Unlike the pure
transport zone, in which the upper bedload transport zone is 5 mm thick, the erosional
section has an upper bedload transport zone 12 mm thick, indicating deeper water
penetration and lower viscosity, both of which favor sediment erosion and initiation of
transport (Fig. 22). The density at ripple surfaces is lower (1.85 g•cm-³) under the vortical
erosional effect than it is in the pure transport zone (1.90 g•cm-³). This difference is due to
water penetration and pressure applied by surface fluid, as demonstrated by Middleton and
Southard (1977).

P170 - located in erosional section - (a) P120 - located in transport section - (b)
150 150
height for flume bottom (mm)

height for flume bottom (mm)

100 100

UBTZ
UBTZ
50 50

0 0
1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2

Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3)

P90 - located in upper avalanching section - (c) P60 - located in lower avalanching section - (d)
150 150
height for flume bottom (mm)

height for flume bottom (mm)

100 100

UBTZ
UBTZ
50 50

0 0
1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2 1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2

Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3)

Fig. 21. Density profile of sand ripples and thickness of upper bedload transport zone in the
erosional section, pure transport section, upper lee side, and lower lee side, as measured
using the periodic single volume technique (PSVT; ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).
When ripples migrate, the stoss side of each ripple is covered by sediment deposited on the
lee side of the next, approaching ripple. Thickness of the upper bedload transport zone
decreases because of water expulsion caused by forward movement of the vortex and
sediment compaction (Fig. 22). Water ejection is recorded in the density change in the upper
bedload transport zone, showing a decrease from 2.06 to 1.84 g•cm-³. The maximum density
point exhibits a small variation in density (0.028 g•cm-³) between 28.32 and 41.89 mm above
254 Sediment Transport

the bed bottom. Deeper in the bed, in the lower bedload transport zone, subtle density
variations are due to compaction and water migration.

P180 - Erosion water penetration and P190 - Deposition compaction

70
180
190
60

MDP
50
height for flume bottom (mm)

40

UBTZ
UBTZ
30

20

10

0
1 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2
Density (g/cm3)

Fig. 22. Density profile P180 (blue), from the vortex section, has a high concentration caused
by fluctuation in the location of the transition between the frontier density point and the
maximum density point. Density profile P190 (red), from the lower lee-side avalanching
section, shows an elevated maximum density point, an increased density in the middle
bedload transport zone, and a similar density in the lower bedload transport zone, an area
that had already been affected by migration of the sediment mass of the preceding ripple.
(PSVT; ripple ID: 2010-No5-C).
Bedload transport occurs in two regimes: initial bedload mobilization and sheet-flow
bedload (King, 2005). The density of the lower part of the sheet flow, just above the
stationary (flat) bed, is defined by the maximum density point of the upper bedload
transport zone. In this study, sheet-flow refers to the entire bedload transport zone and is
used to define the boundary with suspended transport, but maximum density is located
between the upper bedload transport zone and the middle bedload transport zone. The
upper bedload transport zone, which rises and then collapses along the sand ripple under
moving fluid, can be conceptualized as a moving sheet of material. It works well until the
thickness of the layer decreases to the order of a grain diameter, at which point the viscous
sublayer breaks down.
Any sediment bed has a characteristic surface roughness (Fig. 14; Liu, 2001). In this study,
profiles along a ripple indicate changes in this roughness around the frontier density point
and a more complex transition between suspended load and bedload. This observation
emphasizes the need for CT-scanner measurements (Fig. 14) for further investigation of the
transition between suspended load and bedload.
According to Bridge and Demicco (2008), viscous (surface) sublayer drag is dominant on
both hydraulically smooth and hydraulically rough boundaries. Pressure (form) drag is so
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 255

strong that viscous forces can be ignored. In this study, the smooth boundary is in the pure
transport zone and contains the viscous sublayer zone, which moves on a well-defined
bedload with a thin upper bedload transport zone with a high density at the maximum
density point. In the erosional ripple zone, which has a rough boundary, the viscous layer is
replaced by a thicker upper bedload transport zone caused by a more intense and larger
diameter vortex.
Bed roughness thickness is commonly considered to be equivalent to ripple height (Bijker,
1992; Liu, 2001), but in this study, concentration profiles and porosity along the ripples were
not constant, and this general statement is accurate only for a macroscopic view of a small
ripple (~20–30 mm long). For a ripple longer than 30 mm, bed roughness can be micro-
analyzed in subsections. Such ripple micro-analysis is necessary because of the fluctuating
conditions along its length. The main zones involved in bed roughness are a function of
flow: suspended transport zone, viscous sublayer zone, upper bedload transport zone, and
middle bedload transport zone.

6. Vortex analysis
6.1 Effect of vortex on bedload architecture of the lower stoss side
The contribution of vortices to sediment erosion is undisputed, but their effect deep inside
the bedload has been unknown until now. CT-scanner imaging of ripples reveals the vortex
sediment content through density profiles and the effect of vortices on the structural
integrity of the bedload.
Vortices have three parts. The first (Fig. 23, P147) is where the sediment-poor fluid (lowest
concentration) is dragged downward and begins to apply pressure that deepens the critical
shear stress (discussed in section 6.2). The second part of the vortex is the longitudinal part
of the vortex (Fig. 23, P153). This part is characterized by a higher average density in the
suspended load (1.11 g•cm-³ around 90 mm from the bottom, as opposed to 1.06 g•cm-³ for
surrounding volumes). This suspended sediment is entrained by the upward rotating part
of the flow (left-pointing arrow in Fig. 23, P153). The average density appears lower because
of sediment expelled by centripetal force. These density values are not entirely accurate,
however, because the X-ray integration of stationary rotating sediment overestimates the
value, but the relative values remain significant. At the bottom of the vortex, flow is
inverted (right-pointing arrow). This backward flow initiates sediment unpacking, causing
the thickness of the upper bedload transport zone to increase to 8.85 mm, and conditioning
the sediment to leave the bedload. The density transition from the frontier density point to
the maximum density point is disturbed by this pseudo-liquefaction. A maximum density
point forms ~35 mm from the bottom (Fig. 23, P153). This deep point indicates the formation
of a temporary ripple surface sensu stricto, due to the fluid velocity trying to move the
bedform backward. The ripple surface resists backward motion by increasing shear stress,
causing more friction among grains.
The third part of the vortex is its upward motion. In this area, the deep pressure of the
second vortex zone is released. Sediment in the upper bedload transport zone is
waterlogged and has minimal intra-granular friction. The sediment leaves the bedload as
water previously contained in the bedload matrix is released. Density profile P162 (Fig. 23)
shows an average suspended sediment concentration (equation 2) of 0.56, which contrasts
with the values of 0.53 and 0.54 for P147 and P153, respectively.
256 Sediment Transport

P147 P153 P162

100 100 100

90 90 90

80 DOWNWARD 80 80 UPWARD
VORTEX LONGITUDINAL VORTEX
PART VORTEX PART
height for flume bottom (mm)

height for flume bottom (mm)

height for flume bottom (mm)

70 70 PART 70

60 60 60

50 50 50

40 40 40

30 30 30

20 20 20

10 10 10

0 0 0
1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2 1 1.5 2
Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3) Density (g/cm3)

Fig. 23. Density profiles measured in three parts of a stoss-side vortex. Profile P147 is in the
downward-moving part of the vortex, P153 is located in the longitudinal part, and P162 is
located in the upward part.
This increased concentration originates from sediment liquefaction and uplifting. The last
influence of the upward-moving part of the vortex is marked by the elevation of the
maximum density point, which rebuilds a higher ripple surface sensu stricto. The maximum
density point passes from 1.78 g•cm-³ in P153 to 1.83 g•cm-³ in P162, producing a surface
elevation of ~2–4 mm.
The vortex is characterized in general by an average maximum density point density of
approximately 1.83 g•cm-³, in contrast to 2.04 g•cm-³ outside the vortex part of the ripple. In
the upper bedload transport zone, the transition from the frontier density point to the
maximum density point is thick, but, unlike the lee-side avalanche transition zone, it is
neither continuous nor smooth. It is perturbed by the turbulence surrounding the vortex.

6.2 Shear stress effect on bedload architecture

The shear stress in a viscous fluid composed of water and sediment and moving along a
solid boundary induces the shear stress on the boundary (Yalin, 1992). The no-slip condition
dictates that the speed of the fluid at the boundary (relative to that boundary) is zero but, at
some height from the boundary, the flow speed must increase to equal the fluid speed. The
region between these two points is aptly named the boundary layer. Shear stress is
produced in this boundary layer as a result of this difference in velocity and can be
expressed as

∂u
τw = μ (7)
∂y

where μ is the dynamic viscosity of the fluid, u is the velocity of the fluid along the
boundary, and y is the thickness of the boundary layer. As demonstrated in section 4, the
Evolution of Ripple Field Architecture during Sediment Transport, as Measured by CT Scanning 257

sand ripple bedload (more specifically the upper bedload transport zone) is not a solid
boundary, and the dynamic viscosity of the fluid μ is replaced by the viscosity of the inner
bedload μI, which pushes the no-slip condition deep into the bed. The boundary thickness is
now taken from the real ripple surface, which corresponds to the maximum density point,
located at the lowest point in the upper bedload transport zone (Fig. 24).

τ z = τt + τ v + τ i
τt turbulent shear stress
τv viscous shear stress
FDP x
MDP τi internal shear stress

Fig. 24. New shear stress definition, which includes water penetrating into the sediment and
increasing the depth at which sediment transport is initiated.

7. Conclusions
Computed axial tomography (CT-scanning) is a non-destructive technique for generating
images that map the numerical density of a sand-water mixture. The data produced depict
the evolution of sedimentological parameters by variation in density, concentration,
porosity, and viscosity of the water-sediment mixture. Results can be obtained for every
section of a ripple, using zones and inflection points in density patterns. These transport
zones evolve longitudinally in the form of layers that vary in their properties along the
length of each ripple.
This study demonstrates that understanding of the hydraulic phenomena behind sediment
transport can be improved by reference to density points and zones. The value of CT-
scanning lies in its ability to provide numerical parameters associated with the sediment-
water interface and with features associated with shear stress deep inside the bed. CT-
imaging highlights the importance of water penetration deep into the erosional area on the
stoss side of ripples. Accurate measurements of the viscous sublayer reveal the intimate
connection between suspended load and bedload. Density measurements of the lee sides of
ripples highlight compaction phenomena associated with water ejection.
The density profile of a sand ripple consists of the upper bedload transport zone, the middle
bedload transport zone, and the lower bedload transport zone, which form successive layers
that shear against each other. These bedload transport layers move on a thin, low-density
layer that forms at the low-density point. As indicated by Raudkivi (1963), Vanoni and
Hwang (1967), and Middleton and Southard (1977), hydraulic pressure over the bed induces
slow motion deep inside the bed (Madsen and Durham, 2007). The horizontal pressure
gradient persists deep inside the bed, creating a deep shear stress that produces a laminated
transport layer between the lower density point and a higher density layer (maximum
density point). Thicknesses of these layers have been correlated to sediment grain size
258 Sediment Transport

(Montreuil and Long, 2011b), but the velocity of particles within the bed has not been
quantified.
The viscous sublayer exists only in the middle of the ripple stoss side, down-flow from the
fluid reattachment point, where interstitial water is ejected from the sediment. The viscous
sublayer is absent in locations where vortices erode the ripple and where the sediment is
deposed on the lee sides (avalanche face) of ripples.
Stoss-side laminae contain two zones, the upper bedload transport zone and the middle
bedload transport zone (Reineck and Singh, 1975). The static foreset laminae, at the bottom
of the stoss side, form the lower bedload transport zone.
This study confirms the existence and location of major hydraulic points and zones under
various environments, and also reveals new parameters related to flow and sediment
properties. The results also provide a new shear stress profile that includes activity deep
inside the bedform, particularly in areas affected by vortices. Pervasive small-scale
variability is present in the density of near-surface sands, which may have important
implications for the measurement of sediment transport using high-frequency acoustics.
Related work, already in progress, will include an exhaustive analysis of velocity and grain-
size effects on the dynamics of sedimentological parameters. The link between shear stress
within the bed and the upper bedload transport zone will be examined. Bed motion was not
covered in this study but will be measured using X-ray sediment tracking.

8. Acknowledgments
Special acknowledgment to the Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and the GEOIDE
project for their financial contributions and to L. F. Daigle and M. Des Roches for technical
support and work.

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 13

Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions

Faye Hirshfield and Jueyi Sui
University of Northern British Columbia
Canada

1. Introduction
Every winter, a vast majority of rivers in cold regions undergo freeze up and subsequent ice
jam events. Historically, ice jamming on rivers has led to extensive flooding and damage of
property. As humans tend to settle near rivers, the impact of river ice and transport of
sediment under river ice is an important phenomenon in engineering design and
construction. River ice can easily build up around bridge abutments and piers, impacting
not only the structure itself but also the local river bed morphology. In the past 30 years
much research has led to increased knowledge of ice jams and associated river hydraulics.
Studies have documented changes in break up timing during spring (Prowse & Bonsal,
2004), characteristics of ice jam release surges (Jasek, 2003; Beltaos & Burrell, 2005) and the
impacts of climate variability on ice jam events (Beltaos, 2002; Prowse & Conly, 1998;
Prowse & Beltaos, 2002).
The confluence of rivers is a location where ice jams often form. Shallow mixing layers are
generally found at river confluences. Large-scale structures are found in these flows and
should play a significant role in the transverse exchange of mass and momentum. The
merging of ice runs, differences in hydrodynamic pressure between channels, ice congestion
at a confluence bar, and riverbed deformation should be responsible for the evolution of ice
jams at river confluences. A number of studies have documented the occurrence of ice jams
at river confluences: Andres (1997) reported flooding caused by an ice jam at a river
confluence in Prince George, Canada; Wuebben and Gagnon (1996) described the formation
of an ice jam near the confluence of the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers in Montana; Jasek
(1997) presented a case study of an ice jam formed at the confluence of the Porcupine and
Bluefish Rivers in Yukon; Andres & Doyle (1984) and Prowse (1986) gave descriptions of ice
jams at the confluences of the Clearwater and Athabasca Rivers and the Liard and
Mackenzie Rivers, respectively; Ettema et al. (1999, 2001) conducted experimental studies
regarding ice processes at river confluences.
In general, very few records can be found detailing ice jam events supported by field
measurements. Sediment transport under ice cover and characteristics of ice jam events
present obstacles for field examination. Access issues and safety concerns often make it
difficult for ice jams to be properly documented. In addition, sediment recording equipment
in rivers can often be washed out and destroyed during winter freeze up. If ice jams do not
incur damage or flooding, ice events and subsequent under ice sediment transport are often
not sufficiently examined or measured.
The purpose of this chapter is to examine sediment transport under ice cover. In order to
bring attention to the importance of the matter, this chapter will begin with a brief account
262 Sediment Transport

of ice related disasters. Next will be review of sediment transport characteristics under open
channel and ice cover conditions. The incipient motion of frazil ice and sediment under ice
cover will be discussed. Lastly, two case studies will be reviewed: riverbed deformation of
the Hequ Reach of the Yellow River in China and the Nechako River in Canada will be
examined.

2. Historical ice related disasters

River ice build-up and subsequent ice jams have caused bridge failure, flooding of land and
damage to property. Since man has been constructing bridges and crossing structures over
river channels, there have been a number of accidents involving ice build up, ice jams and
sediment scour. Between 1989 and 2000 there were over 500 bridge collapses in the United
States alone (Wardhana & Hadipriono, 2003). River bed scour was responsible for 165 of the
failures and ice was the cause of 10 of the collapses (Wardhana & Hadipriono, 2003). In
April of 1987, the Schoharie Creek Bridge in New York collapsed due to sediment scour
around the bridge pier (Hains & Zabilansky, 2007). During the collapse 5 vehicles plunged
into the river, killing 10 people.
Over time, bridge structures can become unstable due annual ice jams and sediment scour.
A bridge over the White River in Vermont experienced a number of ice jam breakups over
several years; in the winter of 1990 the White River Bridge failed. Examination into the
failure revealed that the bridge foundation gradually became deteriorated due riverbed
scour around the piers (Zabilansky, 1996). Eastern Canada has also experienced numerous
structure failures due to ice jams and sediment transport. An ice jam flood during 1987 in
New Brunswick caused river levels to rise in the Perth-Andover region. Ice build up along
the bottom structures of a railroad bridge eventually caused the bridge to fail, taking with it
rail cars (Beltaos & Burrel, 2002). As early as 1902, New Brunswick records indicate that ice
jam flooding caused the Nashwaak River to rise, resulting in severe damage and flooding to
the area. When the Nashwaak ice jam released, the flow of ice was so powerful it destroyed
a 53 meter long bridge (Beltaos & Burrel, 2005). While research has focused on river ice
processes and sediment scour, there still remain gaps in our knowledge about sediment
transport processes due to the difficulty in studying ice jams and their impact on the river
bed.

3. Flow hydraulics of open channel and ice covered conditions

Sediment transport processes and riverbed deformation is different under ice covered
conditions in comparison to open channel conditions. Open channel flow conditions have
been widely examined; one of the most popular equations governing open channel flow is
the Manning equation,

R 2 3S 1 2
V= (1)
n
where V is the fluid velocity, R is the channel hydraulic radius, S is the hydraulic gradient
and n is the roughness coefficient. The roughness coefficient represents the resistance the
bed material exerts on the water flow. Many studies have explored Manning’s roughness
coefficient in relation to bed material size and configuration and developed sets of resistance
Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 263

values (Fasken, 1963; Limerinos, 1970). Generally, the larger and more angular the riverbed
material, the greater the resistance coefficient.

Fig. 1. Velocity profile of river under open channel flow.

For open channel flow, the flow velocity is highest near the water surface and lowest near
the channel bed. The drag forces exerted on water near the river bed generally account for
the decrease in flow velocity. River ice cover imposes an extra boundary on flow, altering
the flow velocity and water level in comparison to open channel flow (Shen and Wang,
1995). For ice cover conditions, the portion of upper flow is mainly influenced by the ice
cover resistance while the lower flow is mainly influenced by the channel bed resistance (Sui
et al., 2010). The maximum flow is located between the channel bed and ice cover depending
on the relative magnitudes of the ice and bed resistance coefficients. Generally, the
maximum flow velocity is close to the surface with the smallest resistance coefficient. In the
case of narrow river channels or near river banks, the maximum flow velocity will not occur
at the surface but rather slightly below the surface due to the resistance forces of the side
banks (Wang et al., 2008). The velocity profile under ice conditions also depends on the
relative roughness of the ice. Wang et al., (2008) examined the location of the maximum
velocity under rough ice cover, smooth ice cover and open channel flow (Figure 2). As the
ice resistance increases (from smooth ice to rough ice cover), the maximum flow velocity
moves closer to the channel bed.

Fig. 2. Velocity profiles under ice cover with difference resistance coefficients (from Wang et
al., 2008).

3.1 Incipient motion of frazil ice

Frazil is randomly oriented ice crystals that form in turbulent, supercooled water.
Supercooling of river water occurs when cold air temperatures persist and cause river water
to rapidly decrease in temperature below its freezing point of zero degrees Celsius. If the
264 Sediment Transport

decrease in temperature happens very quickly crystal nucleation can be avoided; water can
be well below its freezing point without being in solid phase (forming ice). The occurrence
of supercooled water is important for the development of frazil ice. Frazil ice formation
occurs when turbulent flow causes supercooled river water to mix throughout the entire
channel depth. The mixing of supercooled water throughout the channel depth encourages
the formation of small ice crystals. Through the process of secondary nucleation, more ice
crystals form and continue to grow. These growing ice crystals are termed frazil ice. Frazil
ice crystals will then begin to adhere to sediments in the water and continue to grow.
The conditions for incipient motion of sediment was first introduced by Shields in 1935 and
is generally studied through examining the shear stress as given by,

ρ u∗2c
τ∗ = (1)
g Δρ d e

Where * is the shear stress, ρ is the mass density of water, u2*C is the critical bed shear
velocity, g is the gravitational acceleration, Δρ is the difference in the mass density of the
studied sediment and water and de is the grain size of the sediment particle.
The conditions required for incipient motion of sediment are normally compared with the
critical shear stress of the river bed. In order for a river to begin to transport sediment
resting on the riverbed, the bed shear stress must be greater than the critical shear stress.
The Reynolds number characterises the ratio of viscous to inertial forces for a given flow
condition. The shear Reynolds number (Re*), is used to study the initial motion of sediment
particles,

U ∗c dS
Re = (2)
ν
where u*C is the critical bed shear velocity, ds is the sediment grain size and v is the kinetic
viscosity of the fluid. Water flowing under ice can exert forces that will entrain or move
sediment or ice particles that are located under the ice cover. The forces that act against the
flowing water depend on the particle grain size and particle size gradation. As shown in
Figure 3, there are 3 main forces that act upon a non-cohesive frazil particle.
FB is the buoyancy force of the submerged frazil particles, FL is the hydrodynamic force
acting downward perpendicular to the ice cover and FD is the drag force parallel to the ice
cover. In order for incipient motion to occur the drag force should be equal to the resistance
force (Sui et al., 2010). When a frazil particle is just about to move, the resultant of the drag
and resistant forces is along the direction of the friction angle as given by,

FD − FB sinθ
tanθ = (3)
FB cosθ

When a frazil particle is about to move, it will lose contact with the frazil particle just above
it. The buoyancy force, FB, can be defined as the following,

FB = C 1 g( p − p1 )di3 (4)

where g is gravitational acceleration, p and pi is mass density of water and frazil particles, di
is the median grain size of frazil particles and C1di3 is the volume of the frazil particle. The
drag force, FD, is defined as follows,
Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 265

FD = C 2τ c di2 (5)

where C2 is the particle area coefficient, c is the critical shear stress for incipient motion of a
frazil particle and C2di2 is the effective area of contact between a studied frazil particles and
other particles. By replacing FB and FD in Eq. 3 by their above expressions, the critical shear
stress for incipient motion of frazil ice particles can be given by,

c1
τ cs = gΔρ s dscosθ ( tanθ s − tanθ ) (6)
c2
As examined by Sui et al., (2010) the required shear stress for incipient motion of frazil
particles is larger than the shear stress required for incipient motion of sediment particles.
Also, the shear stress required for incipient motion of frazil particles is larger under smooth
ice conditions in comparison to rough ice conditions (Sui et al., 2010). The authors also
found that the coarser (or larger) the frazil particle, the larger the shear stress required for
incipient motion of frazil ice.

Fig. 3. Forces acting on frazil ice under a sloping ice cover (from Sui et al., 2010)

3.2 Incipient motion of sediment under ice cover

As discussed, the conditions required for incipient motion of sediment are normally
compared with the critical shear stress of the river bed. Since ice cover imposes an added
boundary on flow conditions, the incipient motion of sediment under ice cover is different
than for open channel flow. Wang et al. (2008) conducted a number of clear water flume
experiments examining the relationship between incipient motion of bed material and ice
cover conditions. Since near-bed velocity is higher under ice covered conditions, a higher
shear stress is exerted on the river bed under ice covered conditions (Wang et al., 2008). The
threshold velocity for the incipient motion of sediment under ice cover decreases as the ice
cover resistance increases. This is due to the increased kinetic energy exerted on the bed
material as the near-bed velocity increases. The flow velocity required for initial movement
of bed material under ice cover also increases with water depth (Wang et al., 2008). This
266 Sediment Transport

relationship is only valid if the resistance coefficients of the ice cover and channel bed
remain constant. It was also found that the larger the bed material the greater the velocity
required for incipient motion (Figure 4).

Fig. 4. The relationship between velocity and flow depth and grain size for incipient motion
(from Wang et al. 2008).
The Froude number is used to determine the resistance of an object flowing through water.
The ability of an object to move through water will depend on its size (object length and
area) as well as the relative velocity of water. The greater the Froude number, the greater the
resistance exerted on water flow by the river bed material. The incipient motion of sediment
depends not only on hydraulic variables but also on the characteristics of the bed material
itself. The densimetric Froude number is given by,

νi (7)
F0 =
gd50 ( ρs − ρ )
ρ
where d50 is the median grain size of the bed material. Generally, the larger the roughness
coefficient for ice cover, the greater the near bed flow velocity. In this situation, the larger
the roughness coefficient for ice cover, the smaller the densimetric Froude number for
incipient motion of river bed material (Wang et al. 2008). Since the near bed velocity is
relatively high, larger sediment particles can be moved. However, if the roughness
coefficient of the river bed is high, the near bed velocity will decrease; this in turn will
increase the densimetric Froude number required for incipient motion of bed material.
The shear velocity for near uniform flow, U*, in Eq. 2 is given by the following equation,
Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 267

U∗ = gRS (8)

where R is the hydraulic radius and S is the hydraulic slope. When examining the incipient
motion of sediment, the shear velocity is an important parameter in the Shields criterion as
outlined in Eq. 1. The Shields criterion typically considers sediment to be uniform and
therefore can be defined by one grain size value. In the real world, sediments are non-
uniform. To account for this natural variability in sediment size, Wang et al. (2008) studied
the Shields criterion under 3 different sediment types. The authors found that the larger the
shear Reynolds number, the greater the shear stress for initial motion of river bed material.

4. Riverbed deformation under ice jam conditions

4.1 Hequ Reach, Yellow River, China
This section examines sediment transport and riverbed deformation in the Hequ Reach of
the Yellow River in China, as outlined by Sui et al. (2000, 2006). The Hequ Reach of the
Yellow River is approximately 700 kilometres in length and has a broad and shallow
morphology. The channel width of the middle reach varies between 400 and 1000 metres.
Upstream of the Longkou Gorge (Figure 5) is a reach of open water with numerous localized
rapids. During cold winter temperatures, frazil ice forms in the channel and can lead to the
formation of large ice jams further downstream in the reach. During the years from 1982 to
1992 the river experienced a large number of ice jams; some lasting well over 100 days. In
1982, a frazil jam caused water levels to rise to extremely high levels, flooding the area and
causing extensive damage.
Generally, characteristics of sediment transport during ice jam formation and ice jam
breakup are poorly understood. During an ice jam breakup sediment transport can increase
due to higher flow velocities, increased river bank erosion and high water levels (Prowse,
1993; Beltaos, 1998).
During an ice jam event, sediment can be transported in water and ice moving down the
river channel. Sediment can become attached to frazil ice if supercooled water is moved
through the water column to the river bed. Through ice nucleation occurring at the river bed
ice can attach to bed sediments and form anchor ice. Anchor ice can form around very large
or small particles. Heat transfer from turbulent water can eventually weaken the bond
anchor ice forms with the bottom of the river bed causing it to become buoyant. During
frazil jam events in the Hequ Reach, pebbles ranging in size from 0.2 to 0.5 kilograms have
been observed in ice cover. The largest recorded sediment concentration in frazil ice in the
Hequ Reach was 25 kilograms per metre cubed of ice; this is a much larger sediment
concentration than what has been recorded in water flowing under the ice (7 kilograms per
cubic metre of water).
During an ice jam event from December 1986 to March 1987 Sui et al. (2000) examined
riverbed deformation at a cross section in the Hequ Reach. As shown in Figure 6, over the
period of approximately 3 months, the river width expanded and sediment scour expanded
the deepest parts of the river channel. The following sediment transport and riverbed
deformation processes were observed during frazil ice jams in the Hequ Reach:
a. once frazil ice is formed in the upstream river reach, it is moved underneath the ice in
the jam head area. This process causes frazil ice to accumulate under the head region of
an ice jam, and leads to a reduced cross section. As a result, the head of the ice jam
becomes thicker, water levels rise and increased scouring occurs.
b. since the cross sectional area at the ice jam head is decreased, local flow velocities are
increased. Increased flow velocities move frazil ice accumulated in the ice jam head
268 Sediment Transport

region to the toe. The ice jam toe region then becomes thicker, the river cross section in
the toe location decreases, water levels rise and riverbed scour increases.
c. the latter processes will continue as the air temperature drop. Once the air temperature
begins to warm, frazil ice development will decrease. Any frazil ice will be transported
to the ice jam toe and deposited.

Fig. 5. Hequ Reach of the Yellow River, China.

Based upon extensive field observations of ice jam formation and frazil ice transport, Sui et
al., (2000) proposed that frazil ice formation and riverbed deformation reinforce each other.
The authors found:
a. as an ice jam grows, the riverbed will be scoured. Once an ice jam begins to decrease
and diminish, the riverbed material will undergo deposition. During the entire life of an
ice jam, patterns of scour and deposition will be repeated.
b. river flow during an ice jam becomes covered flow. The decrease in river cross section
causes river flow to take a path of least energy consumption. As a result, the riverbed
will become deformed.
Generally, as indicated by the study of sediment transport under ice for the Hequ Reach, it
can be concluded that the larger the flow velocity under an ice cover, the larger the sediment
concentration. Also, the sediment concentration during stable jamming period is smaller
than the sediment concentration during ice jam breakup period. During a frazil jam it is
important to note that sediment can not only be transported through suspension in current,
but also through attachment to frazil ice.
Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 269

Fig. 6. Changes incurred at cross section of Hequ reach of Yellow River during ice jam
period (from Sui et al., 2000).

Fig. 7. Location of Hequ gauging station and depiction of river reach between Maobula and
Longkou.
270 Sediment Transport

Frazil ice transport can also facilitate the formation of a hanging dam. Frazil ice is carried in
suspension until it joins the head of an ice jam or gets carried underneath the ice cover.
Frazil ice transported underneath the ice cover will become attached to the underside of ice
at such a point in which the flow velocity cannot facilitate further transport. Hanging dams
are often formed around the Hequ gauging station (Figure 7). The river channel between
Maobula and Longkou (Figure 7) has a relatively steep slope, 1.17 percent, exhibits high
flow velocity and generally remains clear of ice during the winter season. This relatively
straight and open river reach is an area of frazil ice production during the winter season.
Due to the river bend that occurs at the Hequ gauging station a river ice cover will often
form. Frazil ice from the upstream open water reach will become entrapped on the
underside of the ice cover at the Hequ gauging station and form a hanging dam.

Fig. 8. Riverbed scour under ice cover conditions during the 1982 to 1983 ice jam season
(from Sui et al. 2006).
During stable jamming periods in 1982-83 a number of cross sections on the Hequ gauging
station were examined (Figure 8). As illustrated in Figure 8, the ice accumulation in the
water profile is in the form of a hanging dam. The hanging dam formation and subsequent
growth is responsible for the deformation of the river bed. As ice accumulation increases so
does the amount of riverbed scour. In Figure 8a, the river had just undergone freeze up in
January, a small amount of ice had accumulated, and the riverbed had been scoured by
approximately a depth of 0.5 metres. Over the course of the next month, frazil ice continued
to accumulate at the Hequ gauging station and a large ice dam was formed (Figure 8b, 8c). By
the middle of February (Fig. 8c) the riverbed had been scoured by 2 meters. By around mid
Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 271

March, temperature began to warm and frazil ice accumulation decreased. Ice accumulation at
the Hequ gauging station decreased and sediment deposition occurred (Figure 8d).
Generally, as shown by the cross sections at the Hequ gauging station, the increase in ice
accumulation in the form of a hanging dam, decreases the river cross section. The reduction
in flow area will increase the velocity of the river flow and causes increased scouring of the
riverbed. By examining riverbed scour depth as it relates to ice accumulation, Sui et al.
(2006) developed the following equation,

AD A
= 0.202 I + 0.095 (9)
AIE AIE

where AD is the area of riverved scour in metres squared, AIE is the cross sectional area
under the hanging dam, AI is the cross sectional area of the ice accumulation.

4.2 Nechako River, Canada

The next section is an examination of riverbed deformation at a river confluence in Prince
George, Canada. The Nechako River in central British Columbia (BC), Canada, experienced
a severe ice jam event that caused flooding and damage during the winter of 2007/2008. Ice
jams have been documented for the past 100 years at the confluence of the Nechako and
Fraser Rivers. During 1979 and 2008, cross section surveys along the Nechako River were
completed (Figure 9). The Nechako River morphology in the 2 kilometre reach, close to the
confluence has significantly changed. Here the Nechako River is more unstable. As the
Nechako River approaches the confluence, the channel also becomes wider and the flow
velocity decreases. As a result of a decrease in flow velocity, sediment deposition in the
form of point bars and mid channel islands have evolved near the confluence. It is evident
by examining the cross sections that sediment transport has been responsible for the change
in channel morphology near the confluence.

Fig. 9. Confluence of the Nechako River and Fraser River, Prince George, Canada.
272 Sediment Transport

The decrease in flow velocity and increase in sediment deposition at the confluence is
reinforced by the Nechako River gradient (average bed elevation) as shown in Figure 10.
The channel slope close to the river confluence decreases as the channel becomes flat. In
addition, since the Nechako River is a secondary branch river of the Fraser River, flow
current from the Fraser River may impede the flow out of the Nechako River resulting in
backwater effects to the Nechako River. This phenomenon will clearly cause a decrease in
flow velocity near river confluence in the Nechako River. When flow velocity or flow
Froude Number is low enough (Sui et al, 2005), an ice cover near river confluence will be
result.

Fig. 10. Comparison of Nechako River cross sections near the river confluence for the 1996
and 2008 ice jams.
With the replenishment of frazil from the upstream river reach in midwinter, frazil ice will
accumulate under ice cover initiated near the river confluence. Thus, the thickness of the ice
jam will grow during winter period. This increased accumulation leads to a reduction of the
flow area and a consequent rise in upstream water levels. With the increase in local flow
velocity caused by the reduced cross section, frazil from the jam head is increasingly
transported toward the toe, causing water levels there to increase as well. These
mechanisms are maintained throughout the ice periods, causing the jam to grow and water
level to increase.
Sediment Transport under Ice Conditions 273

5. Conclusion
This chapter examines characteristics of sediment transport and riverbed deformation under
ice cover. Historically, ice jams have led to bridge collapse, flooding and damage to
property. It is important to understand ice jam characteristics and subsequent sediment
transport processes that occur simultaneously. Sediment transport under ice cover is
different than that of open channel flow. For open channel flow the maximum flow velocity
will occur at the water surface. The maximum flow velocity under ice cover depends on the
roughness coefficients of the ice cover and the bed material. The location of maximum flow
velocity will be closer to the surface with the smallest resistance coefficient.
Due to the boundary conditions imposed by river ice, ice jams can significantly deform a
river bed as compared to deformation observed under open flow conditions (Shen and
Wang, 1995; Sui et al, 2000). The presence of ice cover reduces the river channel cross section
which will in turn increase the river flow velocity. Larger flow velocity will have greater
kinetic energy and cause increased sediment transport and riverbed scour. Generally, as an
ice jam continues to grow and develop, more scouring of the river bed occurs. Frazil ice
development and the formation of hanging dams have a direct relationship with riverbed
deformation; the larger the ice accumulation and hanging dam, the larger the depth of
sediment scour. As temperatures warm and existing sediment entrapped in frazil ice is
transported downstream until such time that jamming diminishes and the sediment is
deposited. As presented in the examination of the Hequ River and Nechako River ice jam
history, a riverbed can undergo significant changes to morphology as a result of sediment
scour as it occurs under ice cover.

6. Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank Dave Dyer, City of Prince George and staff at Northwest
Hydraulic Consultants for providing ice jam data and information.

7. References
Andres. D. (1997). Freeze-up ice jams on the Nechako River at Prince George: analyses of the
1996 event. Report.
Andres. D & Doyle, P. (1984). Analysis of breakup and ice jams on the Athabasca River at
Fort McMurray, Alberta. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 11, 444-458.
Beltaos, S. & Burrell, B. (1998). Transport of metals on sediment during the spring breakup
of river ice. Proceedings of the 14th IAHR International Symposium on Ice,
Potsdam, N.Y. Vol. 2, 793–800.
Beltaos, S. (2002). Effects of climate on mid-winter ice jams. Hydrological Processes, Vol. 16, 789-804.
Beltaos, S. & Burrell, B. (2002). Extreme ice jam floods along the Saint John River, New
Brunswick, Canada. The extremes of the extremes: extraordinary floods.
Proceedings of symposium held at Reykjavik, Iceland, July 2000. IAHS publication
No. 271, IAHS Press, Wallingford, 9-14.
Beltaos, A. & Burrell, B. (2005). Field measurements of ice-jam-release surges. Canadian
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Ettema, R, & Muste, M. (2001). Laboratory Observations of Ice Jams in Channel Confluences.
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Ettema, R., Muste, M. & Kruger, A. (1999). Ice Jams in River Confluences. Report 99-6, US
Army CRREL.
274 Sediment Transport

Fasken, G. (1963). Guide For Selecting Roughness Coefficient ‘n’ values for Channels. Soil
Conservation Service, USDA.
Hains, D. & Zabilansky, L. (2007). Scour under ice: Potential contributing factor in the
Schoharie Creek Bridge Collapse. From Current Practices in Cold Regions
Engineering, in Proceedings of the 13th International Conference on Cold Regions
Engineering, July 23-26, 2006, Maine, USA.
Jasek, M. (1997). Ice jam flood mechanisms on the Porcupine River at Old Crow, Yukon
Territory. Proceedings of the 9th Workshop on River Ice, pp. 351-370, Frederiction,
New Brunswick, September 1997.
Jasek, M. (2003). Ice jam release surges, ice runs, and breaking fronts: field measurements,
physical descriptions, and research needs. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol.
30, 113-127.
Limerinos, J. (1970). Determination of the Manning coefficient from measured bed roughness in
natural channels. Water Supply Paper 1898-B, U.S. Geological Survey, Washington, D.C.
Prowse, T. (1986). Ice jam characteristics, Liard-Mackenzie rivers confluence. Canadian
Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 13, 653-665.
Prowse, T. (1993). Suspended sediment concentration during river ice breakup. Canadian
Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 20, No. 5, 872–875.
Prowse, T. & Beltaos, S. (2002). Climatic control of river-ice hydrology: a review. Hydrological
Processes, Vol. 16, 805-822.
Prowse, T. & Bonsal, B. (2004). Historical trends in river-ice break-up: a review. Nordic
Hydrology, Vol. 35, 281-293.
Prowse, T. & Conly, F. (1998). Effects of climatic variability and flow regulation on ice-jam
flooding of a northern delta. Hydrologic Processes, Vol. 12, 1589-1610.
Shen, H. & Wang, D. (1995). Under cover transport and accumulation of frazil granules.
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, ASCE, Vol. 121, No. 2, 184-195.
Sui, J., Hicks, F. & Menounos, B. (2006). Observations of riverbed scour under a developing
hanging ice dam. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 33, 214-218.
Sui, J., Karney B. & Fang, D. (2005). Variation in Water Level under Ice-Jammed Condition -
Field Investigation and Experimental Study. Nordic Hydrology, Vol.36, 65-84.
Sui, J., Wang, D. & Karney, B. (2000). Sediment concentration and deformation of riverbed in a
frazil jammed river reach. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, Vol. 27, No. 6, 1120-1129
Sui, J., Wang, J., He, Y. & Krol, F. (2010). Velocity profiles and incipient motion of frazil particles
under ice cover. International Journal of Sediment Research, Vol. 25, No. 1, 39-51.
Wang, J., Sui, J., & Karney, B. (2008). Incipient motion of non-cohesive sediment under ice
cover – an experimental study. Journal of Hydrodynamics, Vol. 20, No. 1, 117-124.
Wardhana, K. & Hadipriono, F. (2003). Analysis of recent bridge failures in the United
States. Journal of Performance of Constructed Facilities, Vol. 17, No. 3, 144-150.
Wuebben, J. & Gagnon, J. (1995). Ice Jam Flooding on the Missouri River near Williston,.
North Dakota. Special Report 95-19, US Army CRREL, USA.
Zabilansky, L. (1996). Ice force and scour instrumentation for the White River, Vermont. US
Army CRREL Special Report, 59pp, Hanover, USA.
 14

Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern

through Mesotidal Channels System
Silvia Susana Ginsberg1,2 and Salvador Aliotta1,3
1Instituto
Argentino de Oceanografía, CCT-BBca- CONICET, Bahía Blanca,
2Departamento de Ingeniería Civil, Universidad Tecnológica Nacional-FRBB,
Bahía Blanca,
3Departamento de Geología, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca,

Argentina

1. Introduction
There are three modes of sediment in motion, which are recognized as rolling and/or
sliding; jumped and suspension particles motion. These particles motion include two
essential sediment transport modes, which are bedload and suspended load. The first
corresponds to the part of the total load which is moving very close to the bed. On this
opportunity, the sediment is transported by rolling and/or sliding along the floor or
jumping immediately above the bed. The suspended load comprises the particles that are
carried away at suspension in the moving fluid. Bedload transport occurs in low velocity
flow and/or large grain sizes, while suspended load take place at high velocity flow and/or
small grain sizes.
The sediment transport theory to point out that sediment capacity flow and sediment
availability in channels regulates the motion of sediments. The sediment transport capacity
is the maximum load that can be transported by flow and the sediment availability is the
material supply that the flow can put in motion.
In general, the sediment load that moves in a rolling or saltating mode is smaller compared
with the suspended load transported in a natural flow. However, the bedload sediment is
important for its contribution to the morphological change of the channel. Moreover, it is the
most important factor in determining the stability of natural channel, the bed topography,
and therefore, the cause of the hydraulic resistance and some properties of the flow.
Accordingly, on this chapter we focus on the bed sediment transport pointing to the
pathway migration rather than the sediment transport rate itself.
The sediments transport as bedload in estuarine environment controls the bottom
morphology. Therefore, estimating the transport of non-cohesive sediments, mobilized by
the channel floor, has relevance to the understanding of many pressing environmental
problems including eutrophication, contaminant transport, sediment bed erosion, siltation
and waste disposal, which impacts on seabed stability and at times on ecosystem
distribution. Also, sediments that are moving on the bed generate different bedforms such
as shoal, dunes, point bar, etc., which can be hazards to navigation and to affect the flow
conditions and the flanks channel stability.
276 Sediment Transport

There are different approaches to analyze and estimate the rates and pathways of sediment
transport as bedload. Among them there are recording and analysis through indirect
observations of the morphological and sedimentological features, the bedform geometry
and their asymmetry, and the internal sedimentary structures, carried out with acoustic
instrument (side-scan sonar, echo-sounder, multibeam, seismic, etc.), and/or the use of
empirical formulas to estimating the quantity and net direction of sediment displaced as a
function of the near-bed flow velocity. However, in tidal environment, the alternating ebb
and flood currents as well as the effect of turbulence, become more difficult to estimate the
bedload transport using empirical formulas from laboratory studies. Therefore, we consider
that a best estimate of the bedload transport rates and directions should be in combination
used empirical formulas with the techniques of indirect observations.
Numerous authors (Bagnold, 1956, 1963; Yalin, 1963; Engelund & Hansen,1967; Ackers &
White, 1973; Madsen & Grant, 1976; Gadd et al., 1978; Langhorne, 1981) have given to know
a number formulas for estimating the quantity of sediment transported as bedload as a
function of the current velocity. The earliest formulas proposed to estimate bedload
transport were mainly based on the concept that the sediment transport rate can be related
to the bottom shear stress (Meyer-Peter & Müller, 1948; Einstein, 1950) and these formulas
were valid for steady, uni-directional flows. In coastal and marine environments, the
process of sediment transport becomes more complex due to the presence of oscillatory
flows, and the interaction between steady and oscillatory flows (Bijker, 1967; Watanabe,
1982; Van Rijn, 1993). So, cited by Zheng-Gang Ji (2008) the bedload sediment transport
formulas have the general semiempirical relation of

qB
= Φ(τ 0 ,τ * cr )
ρ SdS gdS

where Φ is a function of the Shields parameter (τ0) and its critical value (τ∗cr), qB bedload
transport rate (mass-per-unit time-per unit-width normal to the flow direction), ds the
sediment particle diameter, ρs the sediment density. Therefore, to predict of sediment
transport rates, an important parameter is the shear stress (τ), which is the tangential force
per unit area that a moving fluid exerts on the sediment bed. When the bottom shear stress
(τ0) exceeds the critical shear stress (τ∗cr), the sediment particles that are resting on the bed
only start moving. The shear stress is related to the flow velocity above the bed (u) through
τ = ρ u 2, thus the flow velocity must exceed a critical value before particles start to move.
Many attempts have been made to determine the bedload transport sediment through the
use of theoretical formulas, empirically deduced. However, to despite of many formulas
existing, not yet was reached an agreement to accept of these equations as the more
satisfactory for the determination of bedload transport. Therefore, the choice of an
appropriate equation for tidal environments is still an open question.

2. Bedload sediment transport at tidal channels

2.1 Methods of analysis
Under all those considerations and taking account there are few studies about the
movement of bed sediment at interconnected tidal channels system, the chapter purpose is
to depict the sediment transport behavior as bedload in this type of sub-environment and
determine the tidal flow as controlling factor of such transport pathways. Understand the
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 277

processes and mechanisms controlling the rate and directions of sandy grain-size transport
are very important because the maintenance of estuaries is closely linked with their
transport paths. Specially, if the estuary is integrated by an interconnecting tidal channels
system. Similarly, the construction of structures, oil pipelines, and sewages outfalls is
dependent on the nature and stability of the bottom sediments. Therefore, the accurate
knowledge of transport paths as bedload sediment is essential if the environmental
managers be able to asses the ultimate destination of material.
Because the exchange of floor sediments between the interconnected channels is not well
know, being subject of present investigations, and as our intend is to advance in this type of
research, in this chapter we show how may be the pathways of bedload sediment transport
at interconnected tidal channels system. Surprisingly, few field evidences supports studies
on inferred the bedload transport rates and directions at an interconnecting tidal channels
system. The majority studies dealing with specific aspects on intertidal dynamics as tidal
asymmetries and morphodynamics of tidal channels but based in laboratory experiments
and theoretical models (Friedrichs, 1995; Schuttelaars & de Swart, 2000; Lanzoni &
Seminara, 2002; Bolla Pittaluga & Seminara, 2003; Tambroni et al., 2005). Under these
considerations and based on studies carried out many years ago at Bahía Blanca estuary
about sediment dynamics in interconnecting tidal channels, we evaluated the pathways and
sediment transport rates as bedload at these sub-environments. A detailed set of in-situ field
measurements include continuous monitoring of bottom currents during at least one tidal
cycle (13 h) at different deployment sites; analysis and interpretation the morphological
features as bedforms orientation (i.e. dunes, sand ribbons, point bar, shoals, etc) and
analysis of sub-bottom strata characteristics that conform these features. All those data were
collected during different campaigns, using high seismic-reflection profiles, side scan sonar
records, bathymetric and current-meters data. In this context, we focusses our analysis
mainly on the description of bedforms geometry, erosion-deposition process and,
asymmetry and analysis of bottom currents in a tidal channels system of the Bahía Blanca
estuary (Argentina).

2.2 General characteristics of channel systems

The regional coastal configuration of Bahía Blanca (Fig. 1) corresponds to a plain estuary
formed by transgressive-regressive sedimentary processes during the latest postglacial
events (Aliotta & Farinati, 1990). This mesomareal estuary is located to south of Buenos
Aires Province (Argentina) and is characterizes because the freshwater input is very small
compared to the tidal prism. There is extensive mudflats with one large sinuous main
channel, where in some sectors the water depth is maintained by dredging (15 m) to ensure
the passage of ships to ports and it is called Principal channel. The south side of the
Principal channel is formed by an extensive intertidal area with an interconnected tidal
channels system of sizes different, very sinuous or meandering and with general orientation
NW-SE (Fig. 1). Because of the little contribution of runoff from terrestrial sources, the
maintenance of channels depends on inflow and outflow tidal. The tidal regime of this
estuary is a semidiurnal periodicity with mean range of around 2 m at the mouth and more
than 4 m at its head, with tidal ranges 2.5 m for neap tides and of 3.42 m for spring tides.
The tide wave propagates following a hypersynchronic mode, generating currents higher
than 1.05 m s-1 (Perillo & Piccolo, 1991). This channel has tidal currents reversible with mean
velocities, measurement recently by us with ADCP, of 1 m s-1 and 1.4 m s-1 for flood and ebb
278 Sediment Transport

conditions, respectively. Maximum speeds of currents, along cross section to Principal

channel, are occurring near the south coast.

Fig. 1. Bahía Blanca Estuary. Intertidal plain with interconnected tidal channels system.
According to the different dimensions, tidal channels have been classified as large channels,
creeks and gullies (Fig. 2). Generally, the smaller channels (gullies and creeks) flow into the
large tidal channels and these latest flows into the Principal Channel. The width and depth
ranges the former may from few tens of centimeters up to 1m, while the large channels
could have reach more than 10m depth and width of 1km in their mouth (Ginsberg &
Perillo, 2004). In plan view, the courses of large channels have shown a low to medium
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 279

sinuosity pattern while the smaller channels are predominantly strongly sinuous or
meandering and their curvatures increases inward. The mouth of the large channels is
highly dynamic area, with considerable movement of sediments and associated
morphological changes, leading sometimes to an infilling as shoal.
In general, the topographic profile is different in relation to channel size (width depth ration
varies) and the bottoms of the larger tidal channels are mostly sandy, enriched in shells and
mud pebbles (Fig. 2). The bottom sediment of smaller channels and gullies of the intertidal
zone are mainly muddy with a low percentage of sand fractions. The sub-bottom
sedimentary material that characterizes sedimentologically the wide tidal plain of Bahía
Blanca, was described by Aliotta et al. (2004) from a vertical stratigraphic profile made on
the erosive flank of a large channel (Tierra Firme channel) (Fig. 3). It is composed at the
bottom with gray-dark to brownish fine-sand and contains about 25% of mud. Upward of
profile the percentage of silt + clay fraction increases more than 75%. A deposit - classified
as clay silty sand - with horizontal parallel bedding made up of thin laminae of fine-to-very-
fine sand (2 mm) and mud (4 mm) outcrops in the intertidal zone, which is characterized by
escarpment levels. The sand/mud interlayered is eroded during the lateral displacement of
channels. Studies in restricted sites indicate values of lateral displacement of up to 25 m yr-1
(Ginsberg & Perillo, 2004). Erosion can result in the formation of small terraces and cut bank
rotational slumping of large blocks, where consolidated sediments after collapse can be
accumulated on the bed along the bank (Fig. 4). Later all these sediments are transported as
bedload. Depending on the strength of the currents, these deposits are carried away as
bedload, normally following the channel currents dominance. Sometimes, large amounts of
sediment are deposited as

Fig. 2. Tidal courses classification. Classification of different channels based on their sizes
range and bottom sediments
280 Sediment Transport

Fig. 3. Seismic-stratigraphic and sedimentological profile along erosive flank of a large

channel.
shoals in mouth of tidal channels. The shoals lie partly below mean sea level, but most of the
larger shoals have become intertidal. Usually, the floors of tidal channel consist of relatively
coarse and fine sand, with mud balls. The shoals are sandy, sometimes with layers of sandy
silt on top.

Fig. 4. Sediment slumped along channel flank. Side Scan Sonar record is showing this
process.

3. Estimation of the bedload sediment transport and relationship with the

morphodynamic
To improve our understanding of the processes and sediment transport as bedload in an
interconnecting tidal channels system, on this chapter we focus in two systems at Bahía
Blanca estuary (Fig. 1). One of them is composed of Cabeza de Buey, El Alambre, La Lista
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 281

and Principal channels and the other system by Tierra Firme, Tres Brazas and Principal
channels. At the first system, the Cabeza de Buey channel is connected to La Lista channel
through El Alambre channel. The first two flow into the Principal channel. The second
system corresponds to the Tierra Firme-Tres Brazas channels, where the first is a
distributary of the second channel. The latter is flowing into the Principal channel.
Arguably, the most important factor controlling the sediment transport as bedload is the
number and pattern of distributaries channels. The pattern in the transport of sediment
through the distributaries channel generally follows the flow of water. However, variability in
the sediment load carried by each branch, depend of the sediment availability at each channel.
Recalling that sediment transport mainly depends on flow velocity, it is possible to relate the
residual sediment transport to the peak values of velocity during the ebb and flood phases. In
addition, is known that the magnitude and direction of the residual transport along a tidal
cycle is mainly affected by tidal asymmetries which are favored by unequal duration and/or
unequal magnitude of ebb and flood (Dronkers, 1986). In particular, flow asymmetry
characterized by shorter flood duration and higher velocity flood current (i.e., flood
dominance) induces a landward sediment transport (Lanzoni & Seminara, 2002). Conversely,
shorter periods fall flow and maximum velocity ebb current (ebb dominance) cause a net
outward sediment transport. To determine the flood/ebb dominance in the net transport
through several sectors of channels has been made an approach depending on both the
duration of each tidal phase and also its peak velocity. Tidal currents observations carried out
in some tidal channels of Bahía Blanca estuary by Montesarchio & Lizasoain (1981); NEDECO-
ARCONSULT (1983); Ginsberg & Perillo (1999, 2004); Vecchi (2009); Ginsberg & Aliotta, (2009)
indicate that the behaviour of tidal currents during the flood phase is different from the ebb
phase (Fig. 5). These measurements suggest the ebb peak is higher than the flood peak, but the
duration of the ebb phase is shorter. For instance, evaluation of maximum velocity indicates
that in general average maximum flood velocities have about 0.80 m s-1 and average
maximum ebb velocities is about 1.20 m s-1. Examination of currents duration indicates that
flood time dominance is about 7 h while ebb period is 5 h. In particular, detailed analysis of the
near-bed velocity in the Tres Brazas channel and its tributary (Tierra Firme channel) indicates
the ebb dominance, with maximum flood velocities of about 0.60 m s-1 and maximum ebb
velocities around 0.85 m s-1. At El Alambre channel the maximum velocity is ebb-direction,
which reaches 0.65 m s-1, while flood is about 0.50 m s-1, and at La Lista channel the
observations indicate a dominance of the ebb current with average velocity of 0.50 m s-1 while
flood current have maximum average values of 0.40 m s-1. All these measurements indicate
that the system is at present ebb-dominated because have a tidal asymmetry with a peak
current velocities 30 % faster during ebb period and with relatively more longer duration of
the flood currents. Therefore, under those considerations, all these measurements indicate that
the strongest current is in ebb direction, suggesting a net sediment transport towards outer
zone of channels.
Based on the velocity measurements above the bed, some of aforementioned specialists have
predicted the net bedload sediment transport rate in some channels. Among them, Vecchi et
al. (2008) and Vecchi (2009) calculation of the sediment transport found in the inner sector of
La Lista and El Alambre channels values of the 0.07745 g cm-1 s-1 and 0.08773 g cm-1 s-1,
respectively, both in the ebb direction. At La Lista mouth, their estimates indicate that the
sediment transport decreases to reach 0.02188 g cm-1 s-1, also in ebb direction. Ginsberg &
Perillo (1999), estimate the sediment transport at Tres Brazas and Tierra Firme channels,
based on the theory where the bedload sediment transport is proportional to the stream
282 Sediment Transport

power (Bagnold, 1966). The results of these studies showed the following values: 489 erg
cm2 s-1 for inner sector of Tres Brazas channel and 379 erg cm2 s-1 for the other channel. All
the studies discussed above demonstrate that in terms of bedload transport, the large
channels are ebb-dominated and in consequence there is export of sediment from landward.
These results showing that the velocity asymmetry at present-day channels, which is
consistent with the residual sediment transport, controls the bed sediment movement
towards Principal channel or outward area.
In order to have an over view complete of the sandy sediment mobility within different
sectors of channels and knowing that bedform characteristics as well as the configurations of
channel system are also determining in pathways sediment transport is given a complete
review of different morphological features that several authors have found in each channel
of both systems. The results indicate that bottom morphology consists of a wide variety of
bedforms at scales ranging for centimeters to tens meters (Ginsberg & Perillo, 2004;
Lizasoain, 2007; Ginsberg et al., 2009 a,b; Ginsberg & Aliotta, 2009). The location and
distribution of bedform types reflects the patterns circulation of sediment transport.
Accordingly, we considered that flood/ebb tidal dominance together with the channels
morphology will give rise to illustrate sediment circulation as bedload at tidal
interconnected channels. For instance, we can mention some junction zones of channels,
which exert an important effect on the hydrodynamics, and therefore on sediment transport
as bedload, increasing or decreasing the ability of the tidal flow to induce a scour holes or
deposits, in these zones. Hence, the changing bottom features will affect the hydrodynamics
and will cause significant changes in the transport pattern. In consequence, local changes as
a meandering sector, point bars, shoals mouth and the junction channels zone could be
responsible for the changes in transport within the channel system. As a result, we will use
these features development in tidal channels as an important tool for evaluation of the
bottom sediment transport.
The main characteristics in channels of Bahía Blanca are asymmetric dunes, whose
distribution, pattern and morphology provide information on bottom currents on the
assumption that they are in equilibrium under the current hydrodynamic conditions
(Boothroyd, 1985; Ikehara & Kinoshita, 1994). In addition, sediment transport as bedload
could be inferred from its asymmetry (Allen, 1968 a,b; Bokuniewicz et al., 1977; Swift &
Freeland, 1978; Harris, 1988). Taking these concepts into account, the examination of the
asymmetry of these dunes carried out by several authors in the systems considered here,
have provided information on sediment transport as bedload as well as on sedimentary
circulation pattern. From the different nomenclatures to available for the description of
these features (Allen, 1968a; Boothroyd & Hubbard, 1975; Ashley, 1990; Berné et al., 1993)
was chosen the classification scheme of Ashley (1990) which considered height (H) and
wavelength (L) as the most important parameters. Two main bedforms scales were
identified in the system considered namely medium dunes (5 m<L<10 m; 0.4 m < H<0.75 m)
and large dunes (10m<L<100m; 0.75 m < H<5m).
Medium dune is the most common bedform in various sites of different tidal channels of
Bahía Blanca estuary (Aliotta et al., 2004; Lizasoain, 2007; Ginsberg et al., 2009b). In
particular, the channel system of Tres Brazas-El Alambre (Ginsberg et al., 2009a) have been
found these bedforms (L=8–10 m; H=0.4– 0.6 m) on a relatively thin sand belt, in the inner
sector of Tres Brazas channel. Also, they found large dunes (L=12 m and H=0.8 m) in the
mouth of Tres Brazas channel with their crestlines very sinuous and barchanoid structure
with low lateral continuity. Their profile is asymmetric with the ebb current. Large dunes
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 283

Fig. 5. Current measurements at tidal channels of Bahía Blanca estuary. The tidal asymmetry
showing the difference of phases between flood and ebb.
are, in general, formed at a 5–6 m depth towards the inner part of Tres Brazas channel, and
at higher depths they disappear, thus forming a sand bottom plane. These authors indicate
that under different tidal conditions, the dunes always have displayed an asymmetric
profile with the lee side towards the Principal channel. On the other hand, according to
Ginsberg et al. (2009a) the morphological and seismic studies in the system Tres Brazas-
Tierra Firme are also indicative of ebb dominance in both channels, although only in the
inner part of Tres Brazas channel there is a significant availability of sandy sediment
mobilized as bedload transport. This circulation pattern is evidenced by the formation of the
dunes above mentioned. The sandy sediments coming from the inner zone of Tres Brazas
channel are mobilized along their southern flank. The major part of the Tres Brazas channel
sediments are transported along this channel towards the Principal channel and the other
partly settles on mouth to form sand shoal. In contrast, the above mentioned authors have
observed that the Tierra Firme channel have a low contribution of sandy sediment and no
will result an important input of them.
Geomorphologically, tidal dominance on sediment transport as bedload produces also bed
forms as sedimentary corps that can using to predict the pathways of sediment transport.
So, based on point bar formation on meander bends, Aliotta et al. (2004) and Vecchi (2009)
284 Sediment Transport

provide useful information to determine the net flood/ebb dominance in the bed-material
transport direction through the channels. They have been described different point bars
configurations and we assume that the difference on nature is in response to sediment
availability that each channel has. Hence, Aliotta et al. (2004) note that the point bar
formation at the inner side of Tierra Firme channel bends is characterized as bank-attached
bar with lateral sedimentation. They observed through analyzing 3.5 kHz seismic data at
Tierra Firme channel (Fig. 6), that the sedimentation on the point bar takes place laterally in
the form of inclined beds. The downlap reflection terminations indicate progradation and
migration of sedimentary body or point bar, which shows an oblique progradational pattern
(Fig. 6, I) formed by sandy silt material supply. This type of seismic facies suggests
(Mitchum et al., 1977) a relatively high hydrodynamic regime. These beds are curved and of
short lateral extent. The layers curved show the sediment transport direction. The maximum
ebb current velocity transports sediment as bedload outside of channel, and some of these
materials tend to be deposited on point bar (Fig. 6, II).

Fig. 6. Point bar in a tidal channel. (I) Seismic record showing the stratigraphic evidences of
a point bar evolution. (1II) Scheme showing the dominant sediment transport direction.
Vecchi (2009), also observed the formation of a point bar in El Alambre channel (Fig. 7), but
she recognized that the high amount sediment mobilized from inside the channel have a
strong influence on natural development of this point bar. Is so those sediment mobilized by
ebb dominance are accumulated on downstream portion of the point bar and cause a
growth of this bar with development an ebb barb. Therefore, a short elongate tidal bar (spit
bar) is formed as a bank attached to point bar (Fig. 7) with separation of the flow into
mutually evasive flood-and ebb-dominated channels. Medium dunes with lee face oriented
to ebb tide migrate on the surface of this bar.
As a resume, point bars are formed by aggradations during the channel migration by the
ebb-domination, typifying meander bends in rivers (Fagherazzi et al., 2004). The current
direction dominance obtained through this feature, indicates a current running parallel to
the strike direction of the layers of longitudinal cross-bedding. The lateral sedimentation on
the point bar demonstrates that bar sediment grow in the ebb-direction. The transformation
of point bar at El Alambre channel as spit bar is the result of the increased sediment
availability as bedload in this channel, relating to hydrodynamic regimes.
Other important area that modifies the sediment movement as bedload within the
interconnected tidal channels system is the larger channels junction or bifurcation sector.
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 285

Several important changes in bed morphology are produced in the confluence/bifurcation

at fluvial or tidal tributaries, being the most significant a deep scour hole formation as result
from remobilization of sediment at the bottom. In this particular case, the spatial patterns of
flow structure and bedload transport will depend on the morphological characteristics of
the area. Various authors (Kjierfve et al., 1979; Ginsberg & Perillo, 1999; Aliotta et al., 2004;
Ginsberg et al., 2009 a; Vecchi, 2009) have studied the dynamic conditions at the
junction/bifurcation area of channels and they came to the conclusion that sediment
movement in this zone follows a very complicated pattern. The flow bifurcation or junction
creates steeper surfaces at the mouth of each confluent channel and a gentle sloping on the
opposite downstream side. Although, erosion and deposition is take place at each face
during the tidal cycle, there is always certain dominance of one of these processes based on
the asymmetry of the tidal currents. As pointed out by Kjierfve et al. (1979) and Ginsberg &
Perillo (1999) the nature of the tidal circulation associated to this zone and estimates of the
sediment transport pathways are related to flood-dominance acting on the steep sides of
tributaries mouth and the ebb-dominance acting over the gentler outer side. The latter
authors observed that holes migrate toward the inner sector of channels, in an opposite
pattern to fluvial holes. Analyzing the bedload circulation, they have found an important

Fig. 7. Point bar in a tidal channel with high sediment transport rate. Seismic records that
show erosion-deposition and sediment transport.
286 Sediment Transport

asymmetry in the transport direction toward the ebb current. On the basis of the currents
measurements and near-bottom sediment flux, they have been recognized that flood-current
eroding act the material within the hole and on the tributary channels, while most of the
sediment is later transported in the ebb direction. Then, some material is deposited on the
gentler outer flank of hole while another large fraction is actually exported towards the
outer system.
Ginsberg et al. (2009 a), through seismic study in Tres Brazas-Tierra Firme channels, also
described and interpreted the depositional and erosive sequences that characterize the hole
developed at junction zone of both channels. This investigation has documented in the sub-
bottom the existence of seismic sequences which found at confluence or bifurcation zone
where the hole has the steeper slopes (Fig. 8A). One of these sequences corresponds to old
sedimentary strata with parallel–subparallel bedding and high lateral continuity and the other
consisting of cross-bedding and a complex sigmoid-oblique seismic progradational pattern.
These facies occur in the inner area on the mouth of each tributary and takes place by erosive
processes. The first facies, located in the lower part, is interpreted as flood flat deposits and the
other, located in the upper, as a lateral migration of ancient stream beds, probably close to
datum level. The materials showing alternating fine sand and silt layering. All these sediments
are overlying by marine transgressive materials, corresponding to sand with containing
different proportions of fragments of shells and pebbles. Contrary to this zone, in opposite
direction, on the slope gentler flank is observed a progradational sequences mainly related to
depositional processes. This sequence is characterized by oblique clinoforms which evidence a
progressive lateral development of slightly sloping depositional surfaces (Fig. 8, B) with their
downlap termination on an erosive discontinuity that forms in the ancient fluviodeltaic and
marine transgressive materials. According to Ginsberg et al. (2009 a) this prograding clinoform
pattern is similar to that produced by the accretion and migration of banks in tidal
environments (Marsset et al., 1999; Tessier et al., 1999). These authors point out that the above-
mentioned discontinuity is covered by 4-5 m of fine sandy sediment, and continuing laterally
in the sub-bottom of the less steep slope of the hole.
Ginsberg et al. (2009 b) considered that turbulence flows are generated, whether when two
flows combine during ebb tide or through flow division during flood tide, causing scour at
the mouth of each tributaries, and extending into central deeper part and steeper flanks of
the hole, resulting an increased in its depth and width. They also discuss the principal
sediment transport pathway as bedload at the two channels and on junction zone. Bottom
sediment circulation at channels confluence zone shows that sediment moving within
distinct corridors, but ever there is an ebb-dominated sediment transport in both channels
and the confluence zone. They concluded that largest material transport pathways occur
essentially surrounding the scour hole (Fig. 8, C) and no bed sediment transport within of
the confluence. They have also been revealed that sediment circulation is modifies on the
face of low angle slope since the material is moves in a counter-clockwise direction (looking
inward), causing introduce of sediments from upstream and thus an accretion effect. As
mentioned above, this observation it is supported by the seismic configuration which
evidences a sandy sedimentation process with prograding clinoforms on this face. The
presence of downlap terminations on the ancient materials indicates that the deposition of
these sediments occurs under flood current conditions (Fig. 8). These authors also point out
that the distribution of sediment as bedload around this confluence or bifurcation depends
on the availability of sediment that each tributary has and their capacity to mobilize them.
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 287

Fig. 8. Bedload sediment transport at confluence zone of Tres Brazas-Tierra Firme channels.
A and B: seismic records, C: side scan sonar record.
Vecchi (2009), studied the confluence of La Lista-El Alambre channels, and found an
analogous sediment transport pattern as described by Ginsberg and colleagues. She has
been estimated the movement path of sediment as bedload at surrounding the confluence
zone of these channels through analysis and interpretation of bedforms and
seismostratigraphic sequences (Fig. 9). However, she have been observed an important
sediment accretion along the steeper slope area of the hole, suggesting that a high sediment
supply derived from the inner sectors of La Lista and El Alambre channels (Fig. 9, A), by
ebb- dominance, is responsible for redistribution of sediment in these places. Her
investigation has documented the existence of high-continuity parallel and sub-parallel
reflectors that characterize the sub-bottom sedimentary sequences, with onlapping fill
configuration at the flanks of the hole. Erosive sequences are obvious towards the lower
parts of the sedimentary pile, indicating that contemporary scour processes continue to
rework the bottom sediments of hole and the deeper sector of El Alambre mouth. The
bedforms reveal the change in the current direction, which is aligned closely to the change
in the topography and explain the ebb dominance. Therefore, the principal sediment
288 Sediment Transport

transport pathway is to bypass through the thalweg towards outside channel, although
amount sediment considerable is also transported and deposited over the flanks and around
the periphery of the hole (Fig. 9, B). The results highlight the significant control of higher
ebb velocity from the El Alambre channel over the bed morphology of the hole, since it is
curved abruptly for aligned with the ebb dominance.

Fig. 9. Bedload sediment transport at confluence zone of El Alambre-La Lista channels. A:

side scan sonar record with dunes, B and C: seismic records of the hole slopes.
On the other hand, scour hole less deep than the confluence scour may be occur by the
interaction of fluid flow with a natural obstacle that protrudes above the surrounding
seabed as can be a rock. Caston (1979) indicated that these scour marks adjacent to these
outcrops have been used to elucidate present bottom-flow regimes in the absence of other
data. This process is characterized by the removal of bottom material from around the
exposed features induced a sediment transport due to currents (Whitehouse, 1998; Vijaya
Kumar et al., 2003; Myrhaug & Rue, 2005; Dey & Barbhuiya, 2006; Callagway et al. ,2009).
According to Ram Babu et al. (2002), the erosion is produced when drag and lift forces of the
flow are higher than the gravitational, frictional and cohesive forces that support the join
sediment particles. Natural structures, such as rock basement exposed, constitute
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 289

topographic highs, where significant scour occur around these highs suggesting that flows
are diverted by the highs and erosion removes sediment preferentially close to the
elevations. Like so, Ginsberg & Aliotta (2009) have been observed a high topographic in the
Cabeza de Buey channel associated with a topographic control of the underlying basement
at the bed of this channel (Fig. 10). The hydrodynamics at Cabeza de Buey channel (Fig. 1) is
characterized by no or very low bed-material transport within this channel. The suspended
sediment concentrations are generally high; the particles are fine, cohesive, and prone to
flocculate. Therefore, the net bedload transport becomes less important and promotes
suspended load transport. In consequence, as no bedforms were present along the channel,
scour hole linked to this topographic irregularity will be taken into account to provide
information about dominant bottom flow. In this sense, through characterization of seismic

Fig. 10. 3D view of a rocky outcrop in Cabeza de Buey channel. The sub-bottom is a seismic
record and the seabed was determined with multibeem survey.
facies and tidal currents data around this obstacle, these authors, have inferred the bottom
sediment transport pathways. The deepest part of the scour occurs immediately upstream of
the exposed bedrock, inward the channel. During ebb period within the hollow, the
strongest currents form eddies which occurring at the deeper side. In contrast, the sediment
deposition occurs on the flank of the exposed bedrock located towards the outflow channel,
being characterized by the sedimentary sequences with onlapping fill configurations (Fig.
10). This provides an insight of the sediment transport around the exposed rock resulting in
sediment removal by ebb dominance towards inner side of the channel and deposition of
sediment occurring towards outer side of channel by flood dominance. Therefore, the
hollow orientation around the exposed rock suggests that the ebb current affects removing
sediment, while the flood current mobilizes a small amount material of bottom towards
inside the channel. Ginsberg & Aliotta (2009), based on the analysis of flow, sedimentary
structures and sedimentation–erosion patterns around of this high topographic suggest that,
although there are less mobilized bedload material, the sediments would be transported
inward by flood dominance.
Another bedform which can use to predict the pathways of sediment transport and are
produced by bedload movement is the shoals-mouth. These sedimentary corps at the
channels may be considered as terminus features of sand transport in the system as
consequence of the ebb current dominance. A result of the sediment convergence towards
290 Sediment Transport

single channel is the development at mouth of the channels an elongate shoal, indicating
that a greater percentage of total sediment load is mobilized throughout this course by the
ebb tidal, contributing to its formation.
In general, sand shoal present in large channel mouths are aligned parallel to the general
direction of the strong tidal currents. They have an elongated shape and are submerged
during high tide and exposed partially at low tide. In plan view, they are curvilinear and
have asymmetrical cross-sections. Large and medium 3D dunes are present all over the
shoals. Particularly, at tidal channel system of Bahía Blanca the shoal-mouth (Fig. 11) have
this type of dunes with heights lower than 1m and wavelengths between 6 and 18 m.
The morphological evolution of this elongated

Fig. 11. Sand shoal mouth at large tidal channels. They are result of higher sediment supply.
sedimentary body is related to a residual sediment transport model with trajectories
opposite to its two flanks. This process leads to a gradual increase in the height and
longitudinal growth of the shoal. In the case of an interconnected tidal channels system, the
convergence of sediment towards an only one channel exerts an important effect on the
hydrodynamics since plays a significant role in forming sand deposits at the channel mouth
due to an increasing in availability of sediment.

4. Conclusion
The sediment movement pattern as bedload in an interconnected channels system is a
consequence of tidal currents combined with the system configuration, which result a net
sediment transport through single channel. From this study seems more plausible that an
ebb increase velocity combined with a short duration, will result in ebb dominance causing
sediment loss from each channel. However, sediments are internally redistributed to be later
mobilizing as bedload through only one channel. In Figure 12 can see that at Bahía Blanca
estuary, the La Lista channel who makes up Cabeza de Buey-El Alambre-La Lista- Principal
system, and Tres Brazas channel, which constitutes Tierra Firme-Tres Brazas-Principal
channel system, are the channels where the sediment converges, before to be disperse into
Principal channel. Additionally, not only the net transport as bedload will be controlled by
ebb dominant at channel but it also will depend on whether the sediment availability at each
channel is significantly high. Specially, in absence of data, field observations as bedform,
Sediment Transport Circulation Pattern through Mesotidal Channels System 291

point bar and other topographic and seismic-stratigraphic characteristics development in

tidal channels are useful diagnostic features to providing an interpretation and predicting
sediment mobilization throughout the interconnected tidal channel system.

Fig. 12. Circulation pattern of sediment transport as bedload obtained of morphological,

seismic and currents integration data. The arrows indicate the estimation of sediment
transport rate according to availability sediment. The numbers indicate the flow capability
for sediment transport.

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 15

Continuous Monitoring of Suspended

Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments
Tiziana Bisantino, Francesco Gentile and Giuliana Trisorio Liuzzi
University of Bari “Aldo Moro” (Dep. PROGESA)
Italy

1. Introduction
Sediment transport in water courses is an indicator of soil eroded from agricultural land, and
the intensity of the phenomenon provides a measure of land degradation and the associated
reduction in the global soil resource. Suspended sediment load is a useful indicator for
assessing the effects of landuse changes and engineering practices in watercourses.
The investigation of the trend in the sediment loads has different constraints in terms of
available data. Sediment load data are lacking for rivers in many areas of the world,
particularly in developing countries where changing sediment yields might be expected
(Walling & Fang, 2003).
Continuous river monitoring is essential to effectively measure suspended sediment loads
during storm events and to accurately describe the sediment transport dynamic. The paper
focuses on the application of technologies for continuous monitoring of suspended sediment
concentration in rivers in semi-arid environments.
In the first part of the paper, methods for measuring suspended sediment concentration are
reviewed. Technologies to continuously monitor suspended sediment overcome traditional
methods requiring routine collection and analysis of water samples. Among the available
instruments, based on optical principles, pressure difference and acoustic backscatter
principles, the optical technology largely spread as turbidity is considered a good
“surrogate” for suspended sediment (Gippel, 1995; Lewis, 1996; Lenzi & Marchi, 2000;
Seeger et al., 2004;) and particularly suitable for high suspended concentrations (López-
Tarazón et al., 2009; Gentile et al., 2010). It provides reliable data when the point
measurements can be correlated to the river's mean cross section concentration value, the
effects of biological fouling can be minimized, and the concentrations remain below the
sensor's upper measurement limit (Gray & Gartner, 2009).
In the second part of the paper the continuous monitoring of the suspended sediment
concentration in a semi-arid watershed is used to analyze the sediment transport dynamics.
In semi-arid areas the seasonality of the hydrological processes and the strong interannual
variation in precipitation rates enhance the role of infrequent flood events (Soler et al., 2007).
As a consequence suspended sediment concentrations in rivers are generally high, as they
compensate for the infrequency of runoff in producing high annual unit sediment yields
(Walling & Kleo, 1979; Alexandrov at al., 2007; Achite & Ouillon, 2007). In these areas
suspended sediment transport provides problems for water-resource management where
channels are impounded as high rates of sedimentation occur in reservoirs.
296 Sediment Transport

High sediment yields in semi-arid environments can be explained in terms of the interaction
between erosive energy and vegetation density even if climatic seasonality, relief, basin
lithology and the extent of human activity combine to influence the global pattern of erosion
processes. The estimation of the sediment transport during the events is necessary for the
calculation of long-term sediment yields from basins, as one single event may represent the
transport of several ‘normal’ years (Wolman & Gerson, 1978).
A measuring station in the Carapelle torrent (Northern Puglia – Southern Italy) was
established in 2007 to continuously monitor suspended sediment concentration. The station
was set up at Ordona bridge and delimits a catchment area of 506.2 km2. It is equipped with
a dual function infrared sensor (turbidity/suspended solids), a remote data acquisition
system and an ultrasound stage meter for water level monitoring. The sensor was
laboratory tested and a field calibration stage was carried out (Gentile et al., 2010).
High temporal resolution data, recorded over a 3-year period (2007-2009), were then
analysed to investigate the relationships between suspended sediment concentration (SSC)
and discharge (Q) in flood flows. During intense flood events the concentrations of sediment
are high, more than 20 g/l. The concentration of suspended sediment varies hysteretically
with water discharge and there are group-types of response. The SSC-Q curves revealed that
in the Carapelle stream clockwise, counterclockwise, mixed loops and also no hysteresis are
possible and can be related to the event intensity and to the sediment availability. The
unsteadiness of the flow mainly influence the sediment transport capacity of the rising and
falling limb of the hydrograph. Sediment load generally closely depends on flood volume
while the maximum suspended sediment concentration is correlated with peak discharge.

2. Measurement of suspended sediments in water courses

2.1 Suspended sediment sampling
Different technologies are available to estimate suspended sediment concentrations in water
courses (Garcia, 2008). Sediment measurement can be carried out sampling the water-
sediment mixture to determine the mean suspended sediment concentration and the particle
size distribution. The different sampling equipments can be summarized in: single-stage,
point-integrating, depth-integrating and pumping type samplers.
If the suspended sediment is uniformly distributed within a stream cross section, the
suspended sediment concentration can be simply determined by means of a single-stage
sampler. It consists of a container (isokinetic or not) that is deployed at a specific flow depth
and instantaneously collects the samples. This method allows a reasonably estimation of the
sediment concentration at the sampled point in small streams and under slow flow
conditions. Rooseboom and Annandale (1981) showed that sampling in bottles generally
gives concentrations about 25% lower than results obtained from more sophisticated
techniques.
Generally suspended sediment concentration in natural streams varies in time and space,
from the water surface to the streambed and laterally across the stream. Concentration
increases from a minimum at the water surface to a maximum at or near the streambed. In
order to take into account this variability point-integrating and depth integrated samplers can
be used.
Point-integrating samplers take the sample over an extended period of time to determine the
average concentration at a point. A point integrating sampler has a nozzle that points
directly into the streamflow. An electrically valve mechanism is used to start and stop the
Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 297

sampling process. To eliminate a sudden inrush after opening of the intake nozzle, the air
pressure in the bottle is balanced with the hydrostatic pressure before opening of the valve.
The time sampling can vary from 1 to 30 minutes.
The depth integrated sampler is lowered at a uniform rate from the water surface to the
streambed, instantly reversed, and then raised again to the water surface. The sampler
continues to take its sample throughout the time of submergence. At least one sample
should be taken at each vertical selected in the cross-section of the stream. A clean bottle is
used for each sample. This type of samplers collects velocity-weighted samples.
Important storm flows are infrequent and difficult to predict, and when they occur, trained
personnel may not be available to collect the required information. As a consequence
automated data collection is essential to effectively capture such events. Automatic samplers
pump a small sample into a series of bottles, at predetermined times and intervals,
triggered by predetermined flow (Pavanelli & Bigi, 2005) or turbidity conditions (Lewis,
1996).

2.2 Acoustic backscatter systems

The acoustic backscatter (ABS) instruments transmit high frequency ultrasound beams
towards the measurement volume. Suspended sediments scatter a portion of this sound
back to the transducer. The strength of the backscattered signal allows the calculation of
sediment concentration. Suspended sediments significantly scatter underwater sound at
megahertz frequencies (0.5 -5 MHz) and the sediment concentration and the grain size
control the backscattered intensity (Thorne & Buckingham, 2004).
The acoustic backscattering method is based on the sonar equation (Medwin & Clay, 1997).
Since the acoustic backscatter system is an indirect method of measurement, an inversion
algorithm is required for determining sediment concentration with measured backscattered
signal strength. The acoustic backscatter equations provide the basis for the development of
such an algorithm (Thorne & Meral, 2007).
The backscatter amplitude depends on the concentration, particle size, and acoustic
frequency. In recent years, the development of multi-frequency acoustic backscatter systems
overcame the uncertainties associated with measurements from single frequency
instruments. Several experiments have been made to use the backscattered signal of the
Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) for determining the suspended sediment
concentrations. The multi-frequencies method using commercial ADCP frequencies is able
to investigate concentration and grain size field inside the silt-sand range, with typical
acoustic shadow zones (Guerrero & Lamberti, 2008). Similarly, the Acoustic Doppler
Velocity Meter (ADV) was used to determine the suspended sediment concentrations.
The acoustic backscatter system requires accurate in-situ calibration and is not suitable for
the upper concentration range (>10 g/l). This technique is sensitive to the presence of
flocculated materials, air bubbles, phytoplankton and seems to provide less precise results,
in terms of concentration, than the optical instruments, when large quantities of fine
material are transported (Fugate & Friedrichs, 2002).

2.3 Optical turbidity

Methods for measuring suspended sediments via optical turbidity derive from the
pioneering work of Whipple and Jackson around the year 1900 that lead to a candlebased
turbidity standard. In 1926, Kingsbury and Clark discovered formazin and improved the
consistency in standards formulation (Sadar, 1999). Turbidity measurement standards
298 Sediment Transport

changed in the 1970's when the nephelometric turbidimeter, or nephelometer, was

developed which determines turbidity by the light scattered at an angle of 90° from the
incident beam.
In recent years the use of the optical technology for river monitoring largely spread as it is
considered a good “surrogate” for suspended sediment (Gippel, 1995; Lewis, 1996). These
instruments are based on the theory that an incident beam in a mixture is subject to
absorption, scattering and transmission caused by the presence of suspended particles. The
light source can vary in wavelength and type. The scattered beam can be measured by one
or more electronic photodetectors positioned at α=90° (nephelometric scattering), α<90°
(forward scattering) or at α>90° (backscattering) to the direction of the incident beam.
These instruments are sensitive to the grain size distribution of the material. This feature has
little relevance in small watersheds because they are generally characterised by homogenous
pluviometric regimes and erosion times, but can be significant in large watersheds (Lenzi
and Marchi, 2000). Variations in grain size distribution, associated with floods, can lead to
nonlinear turbidity/suspended sediment concentration relationships. In practice, the degree
of curvature is usually very small and linear models perform quite well in estimating loads
(Lewis, 2003).
The interferences associated with optical measuring are the colour of the particles and the
watery medium, which absorb light in some bands of the visible spectrum, altering the
characteristics of the transmissed light. Further interference is caused by the ratio between
the size and shape of the particles and the wavelength of the incident beam: particles of a
comparable size to that of the incident beam wavelength transmit light symmetrically,
whereas larger particles transmit an irregular light in all directions. The scattered light, the
density of the particles and the content of dissolved particles such as pollutants and organic
matter can lead to errors of measurement since they interfere with the diffusion of light
between the particles and the photodetector (Gippel, 1989; Foster et al., 1992; Sadar, 1998).
These interferences are minimized by the ratio detection system that uses a combined
system of photodetectors and a specific algorithm that calculates the intensity of the
scattered light (Sadar, 1999). Another advantage of this system is that it can measure in a
broad range of concentrations, therefore it is suitable for suspended sediment monitoring in
different environments.

2.4 Laser diffraction

A new generation of systems for measuring the size distribution and concentration of
suspended sediments is based on small-forward angle scattering technology, formerly called
laser diffraction. At small angles, the scattered light is composed primarily of light diffracted
by a particle. Laser scattering instruments direct a laser beam through the water sample,
and the suspended particles scatter, absorb and reflect the beam. The scattered laser beam is
received by a ring detector that allows measurement of the scattering angle. Particle size and
sediment concentration can be calculated using this angle.
These systems replace old technology optical backscatter sensors or single frequency
acoustic sensors which suffer from calibration changes with particle size and composition.
The laser scattering and transmissiometry devices measure scattering of light at multiple
angles. Inversion of this data leads to sediment concentration and size distribution in 32 size
classes. The size classes span a 200:1 range of particles (1.25 to 250; 2.5 to 500; or 7.5 to 1500
microns). In addition, these systems also measure beam attenuation, which is used to
de-attenuate measured multi-angle scattering. Thus, these instruments have the
Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 299

transmissometer function built in. The detailed size distribution of the laser instrument
exceeds in information content that offered by the multi-frequency acoustic. These
instruments measure sediment concentration in a range of 10 – 3.000 mg/l and are not
suitable for high suspended sediment transport.
This technology can be influenced by few compact aggregates that may scatter the light
beam as individual entities, altering the actual size distribution of the material (Pedocchi
and Garcia, 2006).

3. Suspended sediment transport in semiarid watersheds

Semi-arid climate describes regions receiving low annual rainfall, having nutrient-poor soils
and short-grass or shrublands vegetation. Climate is characterized by extreme variability in
precipitation and is subject to droughts and infrequent rainfall periods and subsequent
flooding. In these areas actual evapotranspiration represents an important feature and it is
recognised as the main hydrologic loss (50-60 % of mean annual rainfall).
In the semi-arid climatic zone hydrological processes are largely variable both in time and
space due to the high variability of rainfall regime, in addition to the influence of
topography and the spatial distribution of geology, soil and land-use. Suspended sediment
load is generally high and it reaches maximum values at the beginning of the flood season
and after dry periods.
In semi-arid environments (if gully erosion is not active), sheet erosion is the main source of
sediments. In the western United States sediment load of rivers is derived mainly from
semiarid watersheds (Wilcox & Wood, 1989).
Vegetation influences soil erosion and agriculture likely represents the dominant cause of
catchment disturbance and accelerated erosion in most areas of the world (Walling & Fang,
2003).
About 40% of Spanish territory is seriously affected by erosion. One of these areas, the
central Ebro valley in northeast Spain, provides a case-study of climate and human impact
on soil erosion. The occurrence of convective storms coupled with the high erodibility of the
soils gives rise to very fragile agrosystems in which soil essentially constitutes a non-
renewable resource (Navas et al., 1997).
The River Isábena in the Ebro valley drains areas of highly erodible sediments (badlands) that
occupy a small portion of the basin but are the main source of sediment. This leads to intense
suspended sediment transport during most flood events. Thirty-four flood were monitored
using a turbidity probe and different hydrological and sedimentary responses of the cachment
to similar rainfall were observed. This variability can be attributed to the sediment availability
and to the antecedent soil moisture conditions (López-Tarazón et al., 2010).
In the Eshtemoa basin (Israel) vegetation is sparse, small areas are cultivated for growing
winter wheat and the steeper hillslopes are used for grazing. The Yatir forest covers a
portion of the basin. An automatic sampling programme was esthablished in the period
1994-1998 and 9 flood events were monitored in the winter seasons. The range of suspended
sediment concentration in the Eshtemoa basin covers similar orders of magnitude of other
semi-arid and arid-zone drainage basins (Alexandrov et al., 2003). Distinct seasonal
differences are identified and related to the prevalence of cellular, convectively enhanced
storms in autumn and spring and frontal storms in winter (Alexandrov et al., 2009).
In northwest Algeria Megnounif et al. (2007) investigated the variability and seasonality of
suspended sediment transport in the Wadi Sabdou collecting water samples during 19 flood
300 Sediment Transport

events (1988-1993). They distinguished two periods of active erosion and high sediment
yield. The first in autumn due to the sediment accumulated during the dry summer and the
second in spring, at the end of the wet season, when the collapsing of the river banks
contributes to increase the sediment transport. During the wet period of winter and spring
the relationships between sediment and discharge produces hysteresis mainly in the form of
mixed loop.
An attempt to explain the relationship between sediment concentration and discharge was
carried out by Benkhaled & Remini (2003) monitoring 13 flood events in the Wadi Wahrane
(Algeria). The high intensity and the variability of concentration of sediments is due to
seasonal effect and hysteresis.
A summary description of the basins monitored in semi-arid environments is reported in
table 1.

River Basin area N° Qp SSCmax References

(km2) events (m3/s) (g/l)
Eshtemoa Alexandrov et
119 9 0.24-84.4 15.5-186.0
(Israel) al. (2003)
Isábena López-Tarazón
445 34 1.52-78.7 0.1-90.0
(Spain) et al. (2010)
Sabdou Megnounif et al.
256 3* 29.2-106.0 22.5-115.0
(Algeria) (2007)
Wahrane Benkhaled &
270 13 0.9-200.0 63.0-250.0**
(Algeria) Remini (2003)
*For three events of the total 19 monitored SSCmax and Qp are available.
**The event Qp=1 m3/s, SSCmax∼500 g/l was excluded from the dataset
Table 1. Basins monitored in semi-arid environments.

4. Monitoring suspended sediment in Southern Italy

The experimental station measuring suspended sediment concentration (fig. 1; tab. 2) is
located in the Carapelle torrent (Ordona-Castelluccio dei Sauri bridge). The torrent
originates from flyschoid formations of the Daunia Mountains and develops into the alluvial
fan of the Tavoliere plain. The plain and the low hilly areas are mainly used for cereal
cultivation and olive growing, whereas the higher slopes are occupied by woods and
pasture. The climate is typically Mediterranean, with rainfalls ranging from 450 to 800
mm/year and average temperatures ranging from 10 to 16 °C.
The station is equipped with a remote data transmission ultrasound stage meter and a stage
recorder. In addition, an infrared optic probe (Gentile et al., 2010) was implemented for the
measurement of the suspended sediment concentration (fig. 2). The instrument is housed in
a shelter tube through a pulley, a float and a counterweight group. The housing device,
anchored to a bridge pier, protects the instrument from the impact of any flowing coarse
material and prevents any potential measuring errors caused by incident radiant energy
straying into the infrared field. Solar infrared radiation decreases of approximately 63%
below 50 mm of clean water, and this information is important particularly in regard to
surveys carried out near surface level. The instrument is controlled through a data
acquisition system that is power supplied by solar panels.
Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 301

Fig. 1. The Carapelle watershed in Southern Italy

Watershed area km2 506.2

Maximum altitude m a.s.l 1075.0
Average altitude m a.s.l. 466.0
Minimum altitude m a.s.l 120.0
Main channel length km 52.2
Main channel slope % 1.8
Mean watershed slope % 8.2
Table 2. Main characteristics of the Carapelle watershed at Ordona bridge.

Fig. 2. The suspended sediment measuring station and the optical device (instrument).
302 Sediment Transport

The instrument was laboratory tested using mixtures of different grain size distributions
and sediment concentrations. The aim was to determine the existing relationship between
the optical data and that obtained with standard methods and to assess the instrument
response to different granulometric contents of the mixture. Afterwards, the instrument was
field-tested to verify the housing device and the calibration curve of the optical probe
(Gentile et al., 2010). This phase was executed collecting 90 samples during the flood seasons
in the period 2007-2009 (fig. 3). The field testing confirmed the results achieved in the
laboratory, evidencing a linear relationship between the optical and the gravimetric data
(fig. 4). The comparison between samples collected inside and outside the tube allowed to
verify that the instrument housing does not interfere with the measuring process.
The concentration and the discharge of 27 flood events, monitored at half-hourly scale, were
then considered to analyze the sediment transport dynamic (tab. 3).

Fig. 3. Sampling of suspended materials during the flood seasons 2007-2009.

Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 303

25

20

Optical SSC (g/l)

15

2
R = 0.96
10

0
0 5 10 15 20 25
Gravimetric SSC (g/l)

Fig. 4. Field calibration of the optical probe.

Event Qp Flood volume SSCmax Sediment load

(m3/s) (m3) (g/l) (t)
27-Feb-07 2.3 167481 2.1 202.7
7-Mar-07 4.1 188457 2.3 232.4
21-Mar-07 10.7 974542 2.5 2184.1
24-Mar-07 6.7 484555 1.4 462.2
28-Mar-07 14.4 600895 3.7 1097.0
31-Mar-07 7.3 470471 2.1 593.0
5-Apr-07 44.9 5551463 20.7 36124.0
9-Apr-07 10.2 54442 9.5 1279.5
23-Jan-08 1.6 187033 2.9 358.0
6-Mar-08 26.7 4076370 18.5 18231.6
6-Dec-08 19.1 987512 32.8 11336.1
18-Dec-08 23.8 1335547 26.6 13064.8
20-Dec-08 6.2 672826 4.9 1997.0
26-Dec-08 34.2 2679841 17.4 25503.3
8-Jan-09 11.6 917056 19.2 5155.6
10-Jan-09 40.6 4133587 22.4 23694.0
14-Jan-09 44.6 6561790 41.2 59652.7
23-Jan-09 42.6 3870310 14.8 21959.2
8-Feb-09 19.4 1418963 28.8 10137.1
5-Mar-09 33.0 1489752 43.0 28208.6
7-Mar-09 68.4 3947932 34.7 87947.0
10-Mar-09 17.1 730348 7.8 2131.3
12-Mar-09 17.7 756934 5.78 2726.8
20-Mar-09 69.2 4014736 20.45 43746.0
22-Mar-09 33.0 2779452 7.77 9879.0
24-Mar-09 21.7 3298477 7.77 10867.6
2-Apr-09 22.9 1630998 27.75 14973.4
Table 3. Hydrologic characteristics of the flood events monitored in the Carapelle torrent.
304 Sediment Transport

5. Results
During the monitoring seasons 2007-2009 twenty-seven events, having continuous data and
absence of anomalies in the time series, have been selected. Most of the relationships
between sediment concentration and discharge (fig. 5), registered at half-hourly scale,
revealed the existence of hysteresis (clockwise, counterclockwise, mixed-shaped). This
means that the relationship between suspended sediment concentration and discharge is
quite different for the rising limb of the hydrograph than for the falling one. The tendency
for sediment concentration to have different values at identical stream discharges is the
primary drawback to the application of a rating curve during a storm flow. In some cases
there can be the absence of hysteresis as shown in figure 5.

8.0 2.5 2.5

7.0 Q 2.0 a
2.0
6.0
SSC

SSC (g/l)
1.5
SSC (g/l)
5.0
Q (m 3/s)

1.5
4.0
1.0
3.0 1.0
2.0 0.5
0.5
1.0
0.0
0.0 0.0
0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 7.00 8.00
30/03/07

30/03/07

30/03/07

31/03/07

31/03/07

31/03/07

31/03/07

01/04/07
15:30

21:30

15:30

21:30
9:30

3:30

9:30

3:30

Q (m 3/s)

20.0 4.0 4.0

18.0 Q 3.5
16.0
3.5 b
SSC 3.0
14.0 3.0
SSC (g/l)
Q (m 3/s)

12.0 2.5
2.5
SSC (g/l)

10.0 2.0
8.0 1.5 2.0
6.0 1.5
4.0 1.0
2.0 0.5 1.0
0.0 0.0 0.5
28/03/07

28/03/07

28/03/07

28/03/07

29/03/07

29/03/07

29/03/07

29/03/07

0.0
12:00

15:00

18:00

21:00

0:00

3:00

6:00

9:00

0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00

Q (m 3/s)

25.0
50.0 24.0 c
Q 20.0
40.0 20.0
SSC
SSC (g/l)

16.0 15.0
SSC (g/l)
Q (m 3/s)

30.0
12.0
20.0 10.0
8.0
10.0 4.0 5.0
0.0 0.0
0.0
04/04/07

04/04/07

05/04/07

05/04/07

05/04/07

06/04/07

06/04/07

07/04/07

07/04/07
11:30

20:30

14:30

23:30

17:30

11:30

0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.00 50.00

5:30

8:30

2:30

Q (m 3/s)

45.0 25.0 16.0

40.0
35.0
Q 20.0 14.0 d
12.0
SSC (g/l)

30.0 SSC
Q (m 3/s)

25.0 15.0
SSC (g/l)

10.0
20.0 10.0
15.0 8.0
10.0 5.0 6.0
5.0
0.0 0.0 4.0
2.0
22/01/09

22/01/09

22/01/09

23/01/09

23/01/09

24/01/09

24/01/09
14:00

23:00

17:00

11:00
5:00

8:00

2:00

0.0
0.00 10.00 20.00 30.00 40.00 50.00
3
Q (m /s)

Fig. 5. Types of relationships between sediment concentration and discharge during flood
events in the Carapelle torrent.
Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 305

Counterclockwise loops can be observed during all the flood season and prevail in the
moderate events. The sediment concentration increases in the falling limb of the hydrograph
due to the distance between the sediment sources (mainly hillslopes) and the measuring
station (Brasington and Richards, 2000).
Clockwise loops occur during the most intense events and the sediment concentration start
to decrease in the rising limb of the hydrograph. This type of response indicates that
sediments delayed in the riverbed contribute to sediment transport (Williams, 1989) but
their availability decreases during the event. This type of loop frequently occurs at the end
of the rainy season as it is influenced by the depletion of sediments produced by the
previous floods (Campbell, 1985).
Mixed-shaped loops occur in multi-peaked floods, for example when an intense flood
immediately follows a moderate flood. This kind of loop can be generated also during the
steady states of the flow (De Sutter et al., 2001).
When the absence of hysteresis is observed the sediment transport capacity is maximum
during the flood.
The unsteadiness of the flow influences sediment transport as the turbulence intensity can
change during a flood. The streamwise and vertical components of the turbulence are
generally larger in the rising limb of the hydrograph than in the falling one. The increased
intensity in the rising limb can be caused by the flood wave overtaking the base flow. The
turbulence intensity decreases immediately in the falling limb, having the minimum value
in the middle of this limb, and then increases to the value for a steady flow condition. High
turbulence intensities maximizes the transport capacity and the sediment concentration is
highest when the duration of the rising limb of the hydrograph is short (De Sutter et at.,
2001). When the decrease of the turbulence occurs the sediment transport capacity reduces
in considerable way. This phenomenon has been observed in some floods of the Carapelle
(fig. 6): when the flow becomes stable and the turbulence reduces an abrupt decrease of the
values of the concentration occurs.

8,0 2,5
Q 2,0
6,0
SSC (g/l)

SSC
Q (m /s)

1,5
3

4,0
1,0
2,0 0,5
0,0 0,0
20/03/07;17.30

20/03/07;20.30

20/03/07;23.30

21/03/07;02.30

21/03/07;05.30

21/03/07;08.30

21/03/07;11.30

21/03/07;14.30

21/03/07;17.30

21/03/07;20.30

21/03/07;23.30

22/03/07;02.30

22/03/07;05.30

22/03/07;08.30

22/03/07;11.30

22/03/07;14.30

22/03/07;18.08

50,0 20,0
Q
40,0 16,0
SSC
SSC (g/l)
Q (m /s)

30,0 12,0
3

20,0 8,0
10,0 4,0
0,0 0,0
05/04/07;00.30

05/04/07;06.30

05/04/07;12.30

05/04/07;18.30

06/04/07;00.30

06/04/07;06.30

06/04/07;12.30

06/04/07;18.30

07/04/07;00.30

07/04/07;06.30

07/04/07;12.30

07/04/07;18.30

08/04/07;00.30

08/04/07;06.30

Fig. 6. Decrease of the sediment concentration during the steady states of the flow.
306 Sediment Transport

100000.0

Sediment load (t)

10000.0

1000.0

100.0
10000 100000 1000000 10000000
R² = 0.8 Flood volume (m3)

Fig. 7. Sediment load vs flood volume

Due to the hysteresis effect the regression scatter of the rating curve SSC = aQb between
suspended sediment concentration SSC and discharge Q (a and b are empirically derived
regression coefficients) is often great for the same river. As a consequence the dependency of
the sediment load from the flood volume and of the SSCmax from Qp was assessed. The best-
fit regression relationship (fig. 7) between the sediment load [t] and the flood volume [m3] is
the power-law relationship (r2 = 0.8):

y=10-4 x1.3 (1)

100.0
SSCmax (g/l)

10.0

1.0
1.0 10.0 100.0

Qp (m3/s) R² = 0.6

Fig. 8. Maximum suspended sediment concentration vs peak discharge.

Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 307

The SSCmax reached during the events has a good correlation with the peak discharge. The
r2 =0.6 means that the variation of SSCmax are explained up to 60% by those of Qp and by
40% by other factors such as the sediment supply, rainfall intensities and land use
variations. The best-fit regression relationship (fig. 8) between SSCmax and Qp is the power-
law relationship:

y=0.89 x0.86 (1)

The time delay T between SSCmax and Qp registered during the events varies with the flood
intensity (Gentile et al., 2010). Plotting the time delay T versus peak discharge Qp a
decreasing trend was observed (fig. 9). Positive values of T indicate that SSCmax follows the
peak discharge and the hysteresis is counter-clockwise; negative values of T indicate that
SSCmax occurs before the peak discharge and the hysteresis is clockwise. A time delay equals
to zero defines the threshold at which discharge exerts a strong influence on the sediment
load and determines the advance of SSC peak value.

30
25
R² = 0.76
20
15
T [hour]

10
5
0
-5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70
-10
Qp [m3/s]

Fig. 9. Time delay T between SSCmax and peak discharge vs Qp.

On the basis of the previous results, the variability of the SSCmax values among the events
was evaluated dividing the floods in moderate events (Q < 30 m3/s) and intense events
(Q > 30 m3/s). Some considerations on the hydrological response of the watershed are
reported.
Three moderate events of the season 2007 (fig. 10), with increasing peak discharges, show
similar maximum SSC values. At the same time the moderate flood of 5 Mar 2009 (fig. 11)
has higher concentrations than the following having comparable intensities.
On the other hand the intense event of the season 2009 (fig. 12) has markedly higher
sediment concentrations than the following floods that show increasing peak discharges.
The reasons of such behaviour can be attributed to the presence in the first flood also of
material coming from the river bed. The sediment concentrations mobilized during the
following floods mainly derive from hillslopes and a best correlation between SSCmax and
Qp can be found.
This can be referred to the sediment depletion from hillslopes that influenced the last events.
The relationship between the maximum SSC and Qp at event scale was evaluated
considering the experimental values of the Carapelle torrent and those reported by
Alexandrov et al. (2003), Benkhaled & Remini (2003), Megnounif et al. (2007) and López-
Tarazón et al. (2010) in order to determine a possible trend of the suspended sediment
transport in semi-arid zones. A general trend exists between the SSCmax and Qp (fig. 13) but,
 308

Q (m 3/s)
Q (m 3 /s)

0.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
10/03/09
0:00
07/03/2007;19.30
07/03/2007;22.30
10/03/09 08/03/2007;01.30
3:00
observed (r2=0.3).

08/03/2007;04.30

10/03/09 08/03/2007;07.30
6:00
08/03/2007;10.30
08/03/2007;13.30
10/03/09
Q (m 3/s) Q (m 3 /s)
9:00 08/03/2007;16.30 0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0

0.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
25.0
30.0
05/03/09 08/03/2007;19.30 26/02/2007;21.00
10/03/09 9:30
12:00 08/03/2007;22.30 27/02/2007;00.00
Q

Q
09/03/2007;01.30 27/02/2007;03.00
SSC

SSC

SSC

SSC
10/03/09 05/03/09
09/03/2007;04.30 27/02/2007;06.00
15:00 12:30

0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
27/02/2007;09.00

0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
S S C (g /l)
SSC (g/l) 27/02/2007;12.00
05/03/09

5
5
5 27/02/2007;15.00
15:30
S S C (g /l)
Q (m 3/s) 27/02/2007;18.00

05/03/09 Q (m 3 /s) 27/02/2007;21.00

0.0
5.0
10.0
15.0
20.0
12/3/09

0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0

18:30
28/02/2007;00.00
6.30 30/3/07 9.30
30/3/07 12.30 28/02/2007;03.00
12/3/09 05/03/09 30/3/07 15.30 28/02/2007;06.00
9.30 21:30 30/3/07 18.30

0.0
5.0
30/3/07 21.30

10.0
15.0
20.0
25.0
30.0
35.0
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5

12/3/09 SSC (g/l) 31/3/07 0.30

12.30 31/3/07 3.30 S S C (g /l)
31/3/07 6.30
12/3/09 31/3/07 9.30
15.30 31/3/07 12.30

Fig. 11. Consecutive events of moderate intensity of the flood season 2009.
Fig. 10. Consecutive events of moderate intensity of the flood season 2007.
31/3/07 15.30
12/3/09 31/3/07 18.30
18.30 31/3/07 21.30

Q
1/4/07 0.30
Q

SSC
SSC

12/3/09 1/4/07 3.30

21.30 1/4/07 6.30

0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5

SSC (g/l) S S C (g /l)

as expected, a large scatter in sediment concentration at similar water discharge was
Sediment Transport
Continuous Monitoring of Suspended Sediment Load in Semi-arid Environments 309

35.0 50.0
30.0 Q 45.0
SSC 40.0
25.0 35.0

S S C (g/l)
Q (m 3 /s)
20.0 30.0
25.0
15.0 20.0
10.0 15.0
10.0
5.0
5.0
0.0 0.0

05/03/09

05/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09
22:00

23:00

0:00

1:00

2:00

3:00

4:00

5:00

6:00
70.0 25.0
70.0 40.0 60.0
Q 20.0
60.0 35.0
Q 50.0
30.0 SSC

S S C (g/l)
50.0 SSC

Q (m /s)
40.0 15.0

S S C (g/l)
25.0
Q (m 3 /s)

3
40.0
20.0 30.0 10.0
30.0
15.0
20.0
20.0
10.0 5.0
10.0 5.0 10.0
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
20/3/09

20/3/09

20/3/09

20/3/09

21/3/09

21/3/09
06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

06/03/09

07/03/09

07/03/09

07/03/09

07/03/09

07/03/09

12.00

15.00

18.00

21.00

0.00

3.00
13:00

16:00

19:00

22:00

10:00

13:00
1:00

4:00

7:00

Fig. 12. Consecutive events of high intensity of the flood season 2009.
Rating parameters a and b of a river strongly depend on flow regime and do not vary in the
same proportions (Achite & Ouillon, 2007). Generally the coefficient b varies in range 0.3–
2.5, while a can vary by several orders of magnitude). In arid zone the coefficient b is smaller
(usually b < 1) as compared to typical perennial rivers of the temperate regions where b > 1.
Intermittent rivers in semi-arid environments seem to have b coefficients lower than 1,
similar to ephemeral rivers in arid zones. In this work the coefficients of the relationship
SSCmax - Qp obtained for five experimental basins are quite consistent with those reported in
literature and can be considered typical of the semi-arid environments.

1000.000

100.000
SSCmax (g/l)

10.000

1.000

0.100

0.010
0.001 0.010 0.100 1.000

Qp (m3/s km2) y = 113.0x0.6

R² = 0.3

Fig. 13. Trend of the suspended sediment concentration in five semi-arid basins.
310 Sediment Transport

6. Conclusions
In recent years many different instruments have been used to determine sediment
concentration in rivers. They have different operational modes and range of
measurement.
In a semi-arid basin of Southern Italy an optical submerged probe is used for continuous
monitoring. The data collected over the period 2007-2009 provided the basis for the analysis
of the suspended sediment transport at the event scale.
As in other semi-arid basins, hysteresis between SSC and discharge during flood events has
been observed. The main reasons of such non-linear hydrological response can be found in
the different flood intensities and in the variations of turbulence that characterize the
unsteadiness of the flow.
An excellent correlation exists between sediment load and flood volume and a good
agreement has been found also between SSCmax and peak discharge. The analysis of the
decreasing trend of the time delay between SSCmax and Qp in relation to flood intensity
allows to consider separately the behaviour of moderate and intense events.
A general relationship between the maximum SSC and Qp at the event scale can be
determined considering the experimental values collected in five semi-arid basins. The
rating parameters a and b of the relationship estabilish hydrological conditions that
characterize the semi-arid environments.

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 16

Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:

Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to
Mercury Immobilization in Sediment
Marcia R. M. Chaves1, Kalliat T. Valsaraj2, Ronald D. DeLaune3,
Robert P. Gambrell3 and Pedro M. Buchler1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Sao Paulo; Sao Paulo,
2Department of Chemical Engineering,

Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana,

3Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences,

Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana,

1Brazil
2,3USA

1. Introduction
Environmental remediation of mercury contaminated sediment includes the inhibition or
minimization of mercury methylation. Mackinawite (FeS) is an excellent material that
inhibits mercury methylation (Liu et al, 2009). Effective remediation of sediment
contaminated with mercury is essential in minimizing the contamination of fish and
shellfish and, consequently, the human exposure to methyl mercury. In-situ capping (ISC) is
one of the remediation methods that have been found to reduce the mercury transport from
sediment to the overlying water. It consists of placing a proper layer of isolating material
between the layers of contaminated sediment and overlying water (Palermo, 1998; Liu et al.,
2007). This method is attractive due to the reduction in mobility and availability of the
contaminant, and requires fewer infrastructures associated with handling, dewatering,
treatment and disposal. Mackinawite was reported as an effective isolating material for use
as a sediment cap (Liu et al, 2009).
Although pure mackinawite can immobilize mercury, it has a low stability when exposed to
oxidized conditions (Burton et al, 2009; Liu et al, 2008; Wolthers et al, 2005). Under field
conditions, the capping material has to be in contact with the oxigenated water column
during the capping building. This process can oxidize the mackinawite, making this
material unable to reacting with the contaminant. Therefore, is important to make the FeS
more resistant to oxidation. To obtain stable mackinawite, we proposed to modify its surface
using L-cysteine as an organic ligand, considering ferredoxin as a model. Ferredoxins are
proteins that have an inorganic active core constituent of Fe2S2 or Fe4S4 bonded to L-cysteine
groups. This core participates in electron-transfer, contributing to important biological
functions such as respiration and photosynthesis (Fontecave and Ollagnier-de-Choudens,
314 Sediment Transport

2008). Piuille et al (1995) reported that the enzyme pyruvate-ferrodoxin oxyreductase was
stable in O2 (atmospheric air) and the L-cysteine groups seemed to provide the oxidation
stability.
Some investigators have tested iron sulfide oxidation at environmental pH ranges (Burton et
al, 2009; Bourdoiseau et al, 2008). Most of the literature is related to the oxidation of reduced
iron sulfide compounds such as pyrite, troilite, and pyrrhotite under acidic conditions, for
solving acid mine drainage issues (Moses et al, 2003). Mackinawite is considered a precursor
to other iron-sulfides (FeS2, Fe1-xS, Fe1+xS, Fe3S4), and should follow the same pattern of
oxidation, occurring via intermediate polysulfide species, resulting in FeOOH and elemental
S0 or iron sulfate. Mackinawite oxidation can occur in biotic or abiotic conditions, but is not
microbially mediated (Burton et al, 2009). In attempting to improve the oxidation resistance
of pyrite, Zhang et al (2003) reported the suppression of pyrite oxidation by about 90%,
through the polymerization of diacetylene groups in the lipid tails, producing a cross-linked
layer on the mineral surface. Along the same lines, Belzile et al (1997) used a series of
coating agents (acetyl acetone, humic acids, amonium lignosulfonates, oxalic acid and
sodium silicate) to increase oxidation inhibition above 40%.
Our current study on anoxic sediment contaminated with mercury is to investigate the
capability of mackinawite modified with L-cysteine to sequestrate mercury. It involves the
effects of L-cysteine on mackinawite structure, oxidation stability, mercury uptake capacity,
and inhibition of mercury methylation capacity. In this chapter, we present the synthesis
and characterization of mackinawite modified with L-cysteine, the effect of this modification
on the structure and oxidation stability of mackinawite, and its implication to mercury
immobilization in contaminated sediment using capping technology.

2. Synthesis of modified mackinawite

Synthetic mackinawite was prepared from deoxygenated solutions of (NH4)2.FeSO4. 6 H2O
(Mohr’s salt; Sigma-Aldrich), and Na2S 9 H2O (Acros Chemicals), using the method
described by Liu et al (2008). The experiments were conducted under N2, using a glove box,
at room temperature (25oC), and all solutions were previously deoxygenated by purging
with N2 (ultra-pure) for 30 minutes.
The unmodified mackinawite (in this work is designed as FeS) was prepared by addition of
100 ml Mohr’s salt (0.4 mol/l) to 100 mL of Na2S.9 H2O (0.4 mol/l) in a three-necked flask,
which was magnetically stirred for 15 minutes. The suspension was filtered using a 0.45µm
membrane filter in a vacuum filtration system. The solid was placed in a HDPE centrifuge
tube, N2 was added to filled the empty space, the tube was tightly closed, placed into a
vacuum-sealed bag, and stored in a freezer. After being frozen, the solid was removed from
the freezer and returned to the reaction flask with 200 ml of water (HPLC grade) previously
deoxygenated, stirred for 15 minutes and filtered. This procedure was repeated twice, and
the solid was dried under a N2 flow, and stored in 1.5 ml vials, preserved in a vacuum-
sealed bag, until be used.
The modified mackinawite (in this work is designed as FeS-Cys) was prepared following the
same procedure, except that 2.0 g of L-cysteine was dissolved in the Mohr’s salt solution
before reaction with the sodium sulfide solution. Although the reaction between Mohr’s salt
and sodium sulfide was effective, the gravimetric yield was 75%, due to solid losses during
the filtration and drying process.
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 315

3. Mackinawite characterization
The characterization was performed by determination of mackinawite composition;
crystallinity; specific surface area and porosity; morphology; oxidation resistance; and
mercury uptake capacity. These characteristics were obtained using the techniques,
instruments, and procedures as described following.
The chemical composition of the solids was determined by a Perkin Elmer 2400 CHNS
Elemental Analyzer, and evaluated by FTIR (Nicolet 6700 FTIR), EDS (Jeol 840A), and XPS
(Kratos AXIS 165 XPS/Electron Spectroscopy, with X-ray source of Al Kα (1253,6 eV),
hybrid mode, 15kV of accelerating voltage,10 mA of current).
The crystallinity of the solids was obtained using a Bruker/Siemens D5000 automated
powder X-ray diffractometer with CuKα. The data were collected in the interval from 2 to 70
degrees 2θ at a rate of 0.02 degrees per 2 seconds. The results were interpreted using the
JADE software V6.1.
The SEM images and EDS spectra were obtained from samples coated with gold, using a
Scanning Electron Microprobe (JEOL 840A) with 15 kV of accelerating voltage. TEM images
were obtained from samples deposited on 200# Cu - Lacey carbon-coated discs, through the
High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope operated at 200 kV of accelerating voltage.
The specific surface area was measured following the multipoint N2-BET adsorption method,
using a QuantaChrome 500 instrument. The sample was transferred to the bulb tube of the
instrument under a N2 flow inside a glove box, sealed with Parafilm®, and transferred rapidly
to the work station where it was degassed at room temperature overnight.
The oxidation experiments were carried out in a 250 mL three-necked flask, open to the
atmosphere. The flask was placed in a water bath on a stirrer plate. In the neck of the flask
were placed pH, EH and dissolved oxygen (DO) sensors. Water (250 mL HPLC grade) was
added to the flask; the pH was controlled with additions of 0.1 M NaOH and/or HCl (trace
metal grade) solutions. Mackinawite (0.5 g) was added to the water and stirred during the
experiment.
The Ross Ultra combination pH sensor (ORION 8156BNUWP), with external automatic
temperature compensation (ATC) probe, was calibrated before each measurement using
commercial 4 and 7 pH buffer solutions, connected to pH/mV/oC meter (Oakton pH 510
series). The Eh sensor, a platinum sure-flow combination Redox-ORP type (Orion
89678BNWP), was calibrated using ORP standard solution (Orion 967901) at the same
temperature of the experiment, connected to a Cole Parmer pH/mV/oC meter, giving direct
Eh measurement. The dissolved oxygen was determined using a Mettler Toledo InLab® 605
sensor, with internal ATC probe, connected to Mettler Toledo SevenGo™ Pro SG6 DO meter,
which was calibrated following the manual instructions, using oxygen-saturated water.
The experiments were conducted under both short and long time scales. Short time-scale (5
hours) experiments were evaluated at pH (4 to 8) and temperature (25oC to 45oC). Long
time-scale experiments were performed at pH 6 and 25oC for 24 hours. Immediately at the
end of each experiment, the solid was filtered using a 0.45µm Pall GN Metricel® mixed
cellulose membrane filter, in a vacuum filtration system, dried under N2 flow, and stored in
1.5 mL vials with N2 to avoid posterior solids oxidation, sealed with parafilm®, and
preserved in a vacuum-sealed bag.
The solids were evaluated using FTIR, obtained through powder direct analysis (Nicolet 6700
FTIR) collected by accumulation of 36 scans, 4 cm-1 resolution, and using air as background.
The crystallinity of the solids was obtained using a Bruker/Siemens D5000, as described early.
316 Sediment Transport

3.1 Chemical composition

EDS Analysis
The chemical composition was evaluated through energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS)
obtained on a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Figure 1 shows the spectra of samples of
mackinawite, unmodified (FeS) and modified with L-cysteine (FeS-Cys). The presence of
oxygen was observed in the unmodified mackinawite, but not in the sample modified with
cysteine. This indicates a possible partial oxidation of the sample of unmodified
mackinawite, and also some resistance to further oxidation of modified mackinawite.

140
S FeS
120 FeS-Cys
100
Counts

80 Fe
60 O
40
20 C
0
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400
Energy (eV)
Fig. 1. Spectra of EDS of the mackinawites studied.
FTIR Analysis
The chemical composition was also evaluated through FTIR of the samples. The iron
sulfides do not present clear absorption bands at lower wavenumber, in the infrared
spectrum. Although it is not possible to distinguish the types of vibration between the atoms
of iron and sulfur present in mackinawite, was possible to judge which bands are due to the
presence of FeS, and which bands are characteristic of L-cysteine. In support of this
evaluation, spectrum was obtained of Mohr's salt solution containing L-cysteine dissolved
under the same conditions used in the preparation of modified mackinawite. The interaction
between iron and L-cysteine may occur through interaction of iron-oxygen, iron-sulfur or
iron-nitrogen, depending on the pH of the system.
The pH below 5 of the iron-cysteine solution facilitated the protonation of the cysteine. In
this case the iron preferentially binds to the sulfur displaying a spectrum similar to
mackinawite. The amount of cysteine was very lower than the iron; thus, the complex
resulted was formed by attachment of one cysteine per atom of iron. From figure 2, it can be
observed that the solution of iron and L-cysteine (Fe-Cys) showed bands characteristic of
asymmetric stretching of carboxylate (C O)2 at 1638 cm-1 typical of amino acid, a weak
band at 1451 cm-1 characteristic of ammonium ion NH4+, and another at 1096 cm-1 indicating
the presence of sulfate (SO42-) constituents of Mohr's salt. A broad band, centered in the
region of 3300 cm-1, comprises the vibration spectrum of the water in the solution
superimposed on the band in 3340 cm-1, relative to the N-H stretching in protonated amine
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 317

(NH3+) of L-cysteine. The absence of the features of the connection with H-S at 2551 cm-1,
shows that iron is linked to the sulfur. We observed that mackinawite modified with
cysteine showed an infrared spectrum almost identical to the original mackinawite, differing
only by the presence of a broad band of low intensity, centered at 1583 cm-1, assigned to the
presence of carboxylate (C O)2. The bands of low intensity in the region of 2200 cm-1 to
1900 cm-1 are attributed to the vibration of the Fe-S bond.

100

90
Transmitance (%)

2550
FeCys
80

70

60 3340
FeS
50
FeS-Cys
40
4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000
-1
Wavenumber (cm )
Fig. 2. FTIR of the iron-cysteine complex (FeCys), unmodified (FeS) and modified (FeS-Cys)
mackinawite.
XPS Analysis
The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is a characterization technique used to evaluate
the surface of the sample. For mackinawite is particularly very useful because it can identify
the presence of oxidation products on the surface of the sample, and the oxidation state of
elements involved.
The survey spectra of modified and unmodified mackinawite indicated the presence of the
elements C, O, Fe and S. The carbon is a ubiquitous contaminant, being found in all
samples. Nevertheless, its presence results in a well-defined spectrum for modified
mackinawite (Fig. 3a).
The spectrum consisted of two broad bands, which were decomposed using the software
Origin 8.1 for Gaussian peaks. The identified peaks are characteristic of cysteine at 284.5 eV
referring to the C-C bond, at 285.5 eV assigned to C-OH and C-N bonds. The peak at 288.4
eV and characteristic of the presence of C=O, found in both the cysteine as the adsorbed CO2
from the air.
The XPS spectra of Fe 2p3/2 of the unmodified mackinawite (Fig. 3b) and mackinawite
modified with cisteine (Fig. 3c) showed a broad band, result of combination of severals
peaks, characteristic of the weathered surface of mackinawite. This corrosion was atributted
to the exposure of the samples to ambient atmosphere during the sample preparation prior
to insertion in the evacuated chamber of the XPS equipment.
The spectrum of unmodified mackinawite showed peaks at 707.9, 709.8 and 711.6,
characteristic of Fe (II)-S, Fe (III)-S and Fe (III)-O bonds. For modified mackinawite, the
peaks were identified at 707.7, 709.0 and 711.2, characteristic of Fe (II)-S, Fe (II)-O and Fe
(III)-O. The presence of these peaks reveals a surface composed by mackinawite and oxy
(hydroxy) of iron, such as goethite or lepidocrocite FeOOH.
318 Sediment Transport

4 4
2.5x10 3.5x10
FeS-Cys a) FeS
4 b)
Intensity (CPS)

4 C (1s) 284.5 3.0x10 Fe (2p3/2)

Intensity (CPS)
2.0x10
709.8
2.5x10
4 711.6
4
1.5x10 707.9
285.5 4
2.0x10
4
1.0x10 288.4
4
1.5x10
3
5.0x10 4
1.0x10
0.0 3
294 292 290 288 286 284 282 280 5.0x10
716 714 712 710 708 706 704

Energy (eV) Energy (eV)

4 4
3.5x10 3.5x10
FeS-Cys
709.0 c) Fe (2p3/2) d)
3.0x10
4
Fe (2p3/2) 3.0x10
4
Intensity (CPS)

4 711.2 707.7
Intensity (CPS) 4
2.5x10 2.5x10
4 4
2.0x10 2.0x10
4 4
1.5x10 1.5x10
4
1.0x10
4 FeS
1.0x10
FeS-Cys
3 3
5.0x10 5.0x10
716 714 712 710 708 706 704 714 712 710 708 706 704
Energy (eV) Energy (eV)

Fig. 3. XPS spectra of C (1s) a) FeS-Cys and Fe ( 2p3/2): b) FeS; c) FeS-Cys; d) merge of the Fe
(2p3/2) curves. Errors for energy ± 0.3 eV.
By merging the curves into one graph, it can be observed that the spectrum presented by
unmodified mackinawite is a result of greater contribution of oxidation products of its
surface; modified mackinawite presented a relatively less weathered surface (Fig. 3d). This
demonstrates the efficiency of cysteine to increase the oxidation resistance of mackinawite.
Similar to iron, the bands resulting from the sulfur 2p spectrum was decomposed, obtaining
the peaks related to mackinawite and products of oxidation (Fig. 4a and 4b).
The peaks of unmodifed mackinawite were identified at 160.1 eV and 161.4 eV
characteristics of (S2-), 162.4 eV characteristic of (S22-), 163.6 eV characteristic of (Sn2-), 164.1
characteristic of (S0), and a broad band centered at 169.0 eV attributed the presence of (SO42).
It is important to note the presence of polysulfides (Sn2-) and elemental sulfur (S0), typical for
the oxidation of the surface mackinawite. The presence of sulfate is attributed more to the
inefficient removal by mackinawite washing during the synthesis process, than the
oxidation process. These results are in agreement with those obtained by other researchers
(Nesbitt and Muir (1994); Behra et al (2001), Boursiquot et al, 2001; Mullet et al, 2001).
For modified mackinawite the identified peaks were centered at 160.3 and 161.2 eV
characteristic of (S2-), 161.8 eV characteristic of (S22-), 163.0 eV characteristic of (Sn2-), and
164.5 characteristic of (S0).
The peak at 168.1 eV, attributed to sulfate (SO42-) adsorbed, is well-defined with lower
energy than that presented by unmodified mackinawite. This could be a result of the
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 319

adsorption of sulfate on cysteine, probably through hydrogen bonds between the hydroxyl
and oxygen of the sulfate, with the amine and the carboxylate groups of the cysteine. Thus it
made the sulfate removal more difficult, explaining the greater contribution in the spectrum.
The results showed that the cysteine influences the oxidation process, since the modified
mackinawite presented the sulfur 2p spectrum with greater contribution of the peaks
characteristic of sulfide, and lower peak intensity of the polysulfide groups. For unmodified
mackinawite, the formation of the spectrum of sulfur showed higher contribution of groups
S22-, polysulfides and elemental sulfur, ie, products of oxidation on its surface.

6500
7500 a) S 2p S 2p3/2
FeS
6000
b) FeS-Cys
7000
Intensity (CPS)

Intensity (CPS)
162.4
6500 5500 161.8
163.6
6000 161.4 160.3
164.1 5000 163.0
5500 160.1
169.0 168.1
5000 4500 164.5 161.2
4500 4000
4000
3500 3500

174 172 170 168 166 164 162 160 158 156 174 172 170 168 166 164 162 160 158 156

Energy (eV) Energy (eV)

Fig. 4. XPS spectra of S 2p: a) FeS and b) FeS-Cys – Errors for energy ± 0.3 eV.
The XPS spectra of O 1s for both mackinawites are shown in the figures 5a and 5b. For
unmodified mackinawite we identified the peaks at 529.4 eV attributed to species (O2-), 531.6
eV attributed to the presence of hydroxyl (OH-) present in iron hydroxide, the peaks at 533.0
eV attributed to adsorbed water molecule, and 534.2 eV attributed to the adsorbed (CO2) from
the air. For the modified mackinawite these peaks were identified at 529.3 eV, 530.7 eV, and
532.3 eV. The peak characteristic CO2 adsorption was not present, and the intensity of the peak
for adsorbed water was much lower than that reported in unmodified mackinawite,
confirming the higher hydrophobic character of its surface, caused by the presence of cysteine.
4
4.0x10 a) FeS O 1s 4.0x10
4
FeS-Cys O 1s
4
b)
4
3.5x10 3.5x10 529,3
Intensidade (CPS)

Intensidade (CPS)

4 531,6 530,7
3.0x10 533,0 3.0x10
4

4
529,4
4
2.5x10 2.5x10
2.0x10
4 534,2 2.0x10
4
532,3
4 4
1.5x10 1.5x10
4 4
1.0x10 1.0x10
3 3
5.0x10 5.0x10
0.0 0.0
540 538 536 534 532 530 528 526 540 538 536 534 532 530 528 526

Energia (eV) Energia (eV)

Fig. 5. XPS spectra of O 1s: a) FeS; b) FeS-Cys. Errors for energy ± 0.3 eV.
Elemental (CHNS) Analysis
Using elemental analysis (CHNS) and ICP-OES analysis to determine iron content, the
chemical composition of unmodified mackinawite was determined as FeS0.86. Sweeney and
Kaplan (1973) also found that FeS has a composition of FeS0.87–0.92. For modified
320 Sediment Transport

mackinawite, the carbon content is due to the amount of L-cysteine in the sample. As L-
cysteine contains a sulfur atom in its molecule, the quantity of sulfur was subtracted from
the total, resulting in the amount of sulfur corresponding to mackinawite (Equation 1).

Smackinawite = Stotal - Scysteine (1)

Considering the mass of carbon in the sample being equal to 0.6 g corresponding to L-
cysteine, and each molecule of L-cysteine has 3 carbons and a sulfur atom, the amount of
cysteine and hence of sulfur was determined to be 16.7 mmol (or 2 g). This amount is in line
with the amount of cysteine added during the preparation of modified mackinawite (2.00 g),
meaning that all the cysteine was reacted. Thus, the chemical composition of mackinawite
modified with L-cysteine was determined as FeS0.735.Cys0.0133. The contents of each element
are presented in table 1.

C H N S Fea
Sample
(% wt) (% wt) (% wt) (% wt) (% wt)
FeS nd nd nd 32.1 67.9
FeS-Cys 0.6 2.1 1.2 28.9 67.2
a Determined by ICP_OES.
Table 1. Chemical analysis of unmodified (FeS) and modified (FeS-Cys) mackinawite.

3.2 Crystalline structure

X-ray diffraction analysis by the powder method confirmed the nano-crystalline structure of
mackinawite. Figure 6 presents the XRPD pattern for the samples. There were low intensity
peaks, characteristic of compounds with low crystallinity and/or nano-size of particles. The
addition of L-cysteine to mackinawite modified the X-ray diffraction patterns. The main
change is the increased intensity of the peak attributed to the (001) spacing with a small
lower angle displacement of the peak. The change in chemical composition and increased
(001) spacing indicate that L-cysteine reacts with the iron, when mixed during the synthesis,
remains within the structure of mackinawite, occupying the spaces between the layers. This
results in the observed lattice expansion.
60

50
FeS
40 FeS-Cys
Counts

30

20
(101)
10

0
10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
(2θ)
Fig. 6. XRPD pattern of FeS and FeS-Cys
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 321

Using the length and angle between the atoms, it was possible to calculate the length of the
cysteine molecule, as approximately 0.432 nm (Ayyaar and Srinivasan, 1965). The lattice
spacing for the mackinawite is 0.529 nm. This is large enough for the L-cysteine molecule to
occupy and expand the lattice. This is aided by the electrostatic repulsion between the
charges in the cysteine and on the surface of mackinawite.
The X-ray diffraction pattern of disordered mackinawite is not well-defined. However, it
was possible to determine the diffraction of the characteristic peak of the plane (001) for
unmodified and modified mackinawite – see Table 2.

FeSa FeS-Cysa FeS-refb FeSc

hkl d (Å) d (Å) d (Å) D (Å)
001 5.2913 5.5187 5.196 5.0328
a Synthetic disordered mackinawite aged for 3 h (this study)
b Synthetic mackinawite original - aged for 3 days (JEONG et al, 2008)
c Crystallized mackinawite (LENNIE et al, 1995 )

Table 2. XRPD parameter for synthetic mackinawite

3.3 Particle size and morphology

The particle size, and morphology of the solids was evaluated using a Nitrogen adsorption
/desorption isotherm (BET), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Transmission
Electron Microscopy (TEM).
The nitrogen adsorption isotherms (BET) for mackinawite are shown in figure 7. The
mackinawite exhibited typical adsorption curves (type III), but with a characteristic H3 type
hysteresis. The isotherm of type III is unusual, and is exhibited by materials with low
interaction with the adsorbate (N2). The adsorption-desorption hysteresis is indicative of the
type of pores on the surface of a solid. The type H3, where desorption occurs along the whole
P/P0 curve, results from clusters of particles of the lamellar type giving rise to the cleft-like

8
Volume (cm /g - STP)

FeS
7
FeS-Cys
6 (open: desorption)
5 (close: adsorption)
3

4
3
2
1
0
0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0
P/P0
Fig. 7. N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms of the unmodified mackinawite (FeS) and
modified mackinawite (FeS-Cys). Average pore diameter and total pore volume: FeS 8.74
nm; 1.30 x 10-2 cm3/g - FeS-Cys 23.09 nm; 0.59 x 10-2 cm3/g.
322 Sediment Transport

pores (Sing, 1985). This feature confirms the layered structure of mackinawite prepared. This
characteristic is important in metal ion adsorption from the liquid medium. The values of
average diameter and total pore volume of the mackinawite are shown in figure 7.
Results show that L-cysteine increases the average pore diameter, but decreases the total
pore volume. The specific surface area was determined by N2 adsorption/desorption
technique, using the BET equation; the values observed experimentally are shown in table 3.
Mackinawite is a nanosized material, the specific surface area determined by BET is
underestimated, due the nitrogen does not cover properly all surface area, result of porous
blocked by cysteine. Thus, it is useful just to make a comparison, and determine the effect of
cysteine on the mackinawite surface. The experimental result of the unmodified
mackinawite is in agreement with values described in the literature, ranging from 4.7 to 80
m2/g. The effect of L-cysteine on the microstructure reduces significantly the specific surface
area, and thus could influence the adsorption capacity of the modified mackinawite.
The SEM images present the shape of the clusters of unmodified and modified mackinawite
(Fig. 8). The original mackinawite had clusters of particles mean spherical in shape, while
modified mackinawite showed more elongated larger clusters. The effect of L-cysteine on
the morphology of mackinawite can be explained based on the attachment of L-cysteine
during the synthesis, between the layers of mackinawite. When L-cysteine is mixed with
Mohr’s salt, the complex [HO2CCH(NH2)CH2S]Fe+ is formed in solution. The reaction of this
solution with sodium sulfate solution, results in a solid containing a portion of the carbon

Specific surface area Particle diameter

Material Reference
(m2/g) (nm)
FeS 5.97 5.0a This work
FeS-Cys 1.02 5.0a This work
FeS 7.0 210b Taylor et al. (1979)
FeS 36.5 40b Rickard (1997)
FeS 80 18b Widler (2002)
a determined by TEM analysis; b calculated using BET specific surface area.
Table 3. Specific surface area and particle diameter for synthetic mackinawite

Fig. 8. Scanning Electron Microscopy: a) unmodified mackinawite; b) modified mackinawite.

(10,000 x magnification).
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 323

Fig. 9. High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy of a) unmodified mackinawite; b)

modified mackinawite.
chain of L-cysteine, on the surface. The interaction of amine and carboxylate groups with
atoms of iron in the adjacent layer, should limit the configuration to a lamellar shape. Thus,
the presence of L-cysteine between the sheets of the FeS, forces the clusters to form plates.
The unmodified and modified mackinawite analyzed by TEM (Fig. 9a and 9b) presented
particles in average diameter of 5 nm. The samples were poor crystallized, but some crystals
allowed to identify the space between the layers (d001) as being 5.24 Å and 5.49 Å for
unmodified and modified mackinawite, respectively. These values are close to those
observed using XRPD analysis, and support the information that the cysteine is located
between the layers in the mackinawite structure, resulting in the lattice expansion.

3.4 Effect of L-cysteine on mackinawite oxidation

Mackinawite oxidation – Short time-scale experiments
The solubility of mackinawite (FeS) in water with pH lower than the pH of point of zero
charge (pHpzc=7.5), is a pH-dependent reaction (equation 2). Above pHpzc, the solubility is a
pH-independent reaction (equation 3), and the aqueous species are neutral and consist in
FenSn or clusters with Fe:S ratio of 1(Rickard, 2006). The oxidative dissolution of FeS is a
process that can be described by serveral reactions (equations 4-6), being the pH a important
parameter.

FeS(S) + H2O + H+ − HS- + Fe2+ (2)

nFeS(S) − FenSn (aq) (3)

2 FeS(S) + 9
2
O2 + 3 H2O − 2FeO(OH) + 2SO 24 − + 4 H+ (4)

FeS(S) + 3
2
O2 + 1
2
H2O − 1
8
S 08 + FeOOH (5)

1
8
S 08 + 3
2
O2 + H2O − SO 24 − + 2H+ (6)

When mackinawite was added to water, a fast increase of pH to a maximum occurred

within the first minute, which decreased slowly to no more than one unit below the
324 Sediment Transport

maximum (Fig. 10). This behavior indicates the existence of two processes, viz., the fast
protonation of the surface, followed by mackinawite surface oxidation. The protonation of
mackinawite surface is favored due to the high content of sulfur atoms.

11 11
10 a) 10 b)
9 9
o o
8 FeS / 25 C 8
pH

FeS-Cys / 25 C

pH
7 pH 4 7 pH 4
pH 5 pH 5
6 6
pH 6 pH 6
5 pH 7 5 pH 7
pH 8 4 pH 8
4
0 60 120 180 240 300 0 60 120 180 240 300
Time (min) Time (min)
Fig. 10. pH solution during the mackinawite oxidation process (short time).
Mackinawite when added to water (2 g/l) produced a strongly reduced environment within
the first minute of contact, resulting from surface protonation and sorption of dissolved
oxygen. The redox potential increased gradually during the following 5 hours, attributed to
gradual increase of amount of oxidized species in solution.
The redox characteristics of unmodified mackinawite were not sensibly affected by initial
pH, whereas that of the modified mackinawite showed sensible to initial pH (Fig. 11). The
Eh was more negative at initial pH values between 4 and 7 indicating progressive resistance
to oxidation.
The modified mackinawite showed the same trend of Eh behavior presented by unmodified
mackinawite in initial pH 4 to 7; however, the Eh was more sensible to initial pH than the
unmodified mackinawite. It can be explained by the variable charge surface of cysteine, and
its protonation/deprotonation with pH change.
The Eh of solutions containing FeS-Cys was lower than that of FeS under the same
conditions throughout the experiments, indicating that cysteine increased the mackinawite
oxidation resistance, as showed earlier by XPS analysis. This can be observed through the
XRPD (Fig. 12) and FTIR (Fig 13) analyses of the solids obtained after 5 hours of experiment.
The effect of initial pH is more visible to the peak at 14 (2θ), characteristic of lepidrocrocite.
The intensity of this peak decrease wiht increasing pH range 4-6, and increase with
decreasing the pH range 7-8. This behavior indicates that the oxidation process decreased
until pH 6, increasing to higher pHs. This is in agreement with the mackinawite surface
chemistry (Mullet et al, 2002).
There is a lower intensity of the peaks caracteristic of sulfur (S) and lepdocrocite (L), and the
highest band intensity characteristic of mackinawite (M) in the XRPD pattern of the FeS-Cys
in relation to the XRPD pattern of the FeS.
The FTIR spectra of FeS oxidized at different initial pHs showed bands at 668, 743, 795 and
885 cm-1, and 3127 cm-1, associated with the stretch modes and δOH νOH of lepidocrocite,
respectively. A band of low intensity at 3730 cm-1 and due to the stretching of the OH free
connection, similar to the silanol on the surface of silica. Elemental sulfur (S0) has no stretch
modes in the spectrum. The bands at 1200, 1120 and 996 cm-1 can be attributed to sulfate
adsorbed on the surface of lepdocrocite. This is similar to sulfate adsorbed on goethite (Peak
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 325

et al., 1999). The band expanded in 2000 and 2150 cm-1 indicate the stretching of the Fe-S
bound in mackinawite.

300 300
o

200
FeS / 25 C a) FeS-Cys / 25 C
o
b)
pH 4 200
pH 4
100 pH 5 100 pH 5
Eh (mV)

pH 6 pH 6

Eh (mV)
0 0
pH 7 pH 7
-100 pH 8 -100 pH 8
-200 -200
-300 -300
-400 -400
0 60 120 180 240 300 0 60 120 180 240 300
Time (min) Time (min)

10 10
Dissolved oxygen (mg/l)
Dissolved oxygen (mg/l)

9 9
c) FeS / 25 C
o
d) FeS-Cys / 25 C
o

8 8
pH 4 pH 4
7 7
pH 5 pH 5
6 6
pH 6 pH 6
5 5
pH 7 pH 7
4 4
3 pH 8 3 pH 8
2 2
1 1
0 0
0 60 120 180 240 300 0 60 120 180 240 300
Time (min) Time (min)
Fig. 11. Eh and DO of solution during the oxidation of mackinanwite (short time).

a) S
b) FeS-Cys 25 C
O
O
L S FeS 25 C S
S L LM S
M S LSL S S LS LM L S
(pH 4) (pH 4)
(pH 5)
(pH 5)
(pH 6) (pH 6)

(pH 7) (pH 7)

(pH 8) (pH 8)
10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70

2θ 2θ
Fig. 12. XRPD pattern of the solids after oxidation experiments (short time). (L)
lepidocrocite; (S) sulfur; (M) mackinawite.
326 Sediment Transport

100 100
a) 90 b)
Transmitance (%)

Transmitance(%)
90 80
70
80
60
50
50
40 40
FeS Initial pH 6 FeS-Cys Initial pH 6
30 Initial pH 4 Initial pH 7 30 Initial pH 4 Initial pH 7
20 Initial pH 5.6 Initial pH 8 20 Initial pH 5.6 Initial pH 8
4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000
-1 -1
Wavenumber (cm ) Wavenumber (cm )

Fig. 13. FTIR spectra of a) unmodified and b) modified mackinawite after oxidation
processes (short time)
The FeS-Cys showed the characteristic bands of the OH vibration of lepdocrocite (668, 739,
794, 883, and 3128 cm-1), the low intensity band in the 3730 cm-1 is attributed to stretching of
free OH, and bands associated to the presence of sulfate (1200, 1120 and 996 cm-1).
Similar to the XRPD, the FTIR spectrum of the FeS shows visible difference, with greater
intensity of the peaks associated with the presence of sulfate and lepdocrocite, in relation to
FeS-Cys, indicating greater susceptibility to oxidation.
Effect of the temperature on the mackinawite oxidation
The effect of temperature on the mackinawite oxidation was also evaluated (Fig. 14). It was
observed that an increase in temperature inhibits the oxidation process. The oxidation
reaction is dependent on the dissolved oxygen in water, which decreases at higher
temperatures. We observed a difference in the Eh of the solution of FeS and FeS-Cys at 25oC
and 35oC, but in 45oC all the samples showed the same behavior, due the critical
concentration of dissolved oxygen have limited the oxidation process.
By comparison, the FeS showed a higher degree of oxidation than the FeS-Cys at different
temperatures, observed through the peak of characteristic X-ray diffraction of the oxidation
products (lepidocrocite and sulfur) (Fig. 15).

300 300
a) FeS / pH 5 b) FeS-Cys / pH 5
200 o 200 o
25 C 25 C
100 o 100 o
35 C 35 C
Eh (mV)
Eh (mV)

0 o 0 o
45 C 45 C
-100 -100
-200 -200
-300 -300
-400 -400
0 60 120 180 240 300 0 60 120 180 240 300
Time (min) Time (min)

Fig. 14. Effect of temperature on the mackinawite oxidation process.

Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 327

a) S FeS pH 5
FeS-Cys pH 5
SS L
LM S M
LML L
S S SL M
o
SS L
(25 C) o
(25 C)
o
(35 C) o
(35 C)

M o
(45 C) o
M M M (45 C)

(original) (original)
10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
2θ 2θ
Fig. 15. XRPD pattern of the solids after oxidation experiments in diferent temperatures
(short time).
Mackinawite oxidation – Long time-scale experiments
The unmodified mackinawite (FeS) has low resistance to oxidation (Liu et al, 2008, Wolters
et al, 2005). In preliminary analysis (not shown), we observed that FeS oxidized in less than
24 hours. Thus, this period was selected to evaluate the oxidation process in experiments of
long time scale.
The redox potential of the solutions followed the same pattern as that described for the short
time experiments. After strong initial reduction, the Eh increased during the next 24 hours.
The FeS-Cys showed lower Eh throughout the experiment, compared to the FeS, indicating
increased stability towards oxidation (Fig. 16a). In the graph of Eh vs. time, it is possible to
observe two distinct regions (a and b). The boundary between these regions was defined as
a function of change of slope of the curve, denoting a change in the kinetics of the process.
The point that occured this process was accompanied by color change of suspension. For
FeS, after nine hours of agitation in the experimental conditions described, the suspension
changed from black to red very quickly, attributed to the oxidation of iron (II) of the
mackinawite to iron (III). The modified mackinawite showed the same pattern, except that
the region was extended up to 14 hours.
The time required for the onset of advanced oxidation was considered as a parameter to
evaluate the oxidation resistance, since the experiments were performed under the same
conditions, varying only the type of solid. Thus, the increase in 5 hours observed for the
modified mackinawite represented an increase of 55% in relation to unmodified mackinawite.
The results are in agreement with the model proposed by Chiriţă et al (2008) for the
oxidative dissolution of a mixture of 4M pyrrhotite and troilite. According to this model and
the experimental results, the mechanism of oxidation of mackinawite is based on the process
of protonation and surface oxidation (phase a), and the collapse of the surface with the fast
oxidation of the bulk solid (phase b).
The mackinawite surface is protonated upon contact with the water (equation 7). Protonated
groups react with adsorbed oxygen, making the surface-rich in sulfide groups (equation 8).
Sulfide groups (≡Sm2-) prevent the diffusion of oxygen to the bulk solid, resulting in lower
oxidation rate, which was called inhibition oxidation phase (phase a). The decrease in pH,
observed experimentally supports this information.
328 Sediment Transport

The iron released into the solution reacts with oxygen and is oxidized to iron oxide-
hydroxide, which precipitates as lepdocrocite (equation 9).

≡ FeSH0 + H+ → ≡ FeSH +2 (7)

please, send me this eq with second proof form in mathtype (8)

Fe2+ + O2 + H+ → FeO(OH) (9)

The inhibition and fast oxidation of mackinawite also are characterized by the concentration of
dissolved oxygen (Fig. 16c). When mackinawite (FeS and FeS-Cys) was added to water, the
dissolved oxygen concentration decreased rapidly, making the system anoxic within five
minutes. The system remained below 0.5 mg/l during 9 and 14 hours, respectively, for FeS
and FeS-Cys. Then, the DO increased until the saturation value of approximately 7 mg/l. The
amount of oxygen consumed in this process was determined using the Fick's law of diffusion,
the diffusion coefficient of oxygen in water (1.96x10-5 cm2/s), the area of the reaction flask, and
the gradient of concentration of oxygen, considering 1mm of the surface water (Table 4).
As shown in figure 16c the dissolved oxygen was continuously consumed during the
inhibition phase. Chiriţă and Descostes (2008) proposed that the impermeability of the
oxidized surface layer is a function of the length and position of the polysulfide chains.

9
Dissolved oxygen (mg/l)

300
FeS a) 8 c) FeS
200 FeS-Cys FeS-Cys
7
o
100 pH 6 - 25 C 6 o
pH 6 - 25 C
Eh (mV)

0 5
b 4
-100 a 3
-200 b 2 b
a
-300 1 a b
a
0
-400
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Time (h) Time (h)

10 b)
9
pH

8
FeS
7
FeS-Cys
o
pH 6 - 25 C
6

0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Time (h)
Fig. 16. Eh, pH and DO of the suspension during the oxidation process of mackinawite (long
time).
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 329

FeS FeS-Cys
Phase
Consummed O2 (mol) Consummed O2 (mol)
Initial adsorption +
5.854 x10-4 7.810 x10-4
inhibition
Fast oxidation 1.318 x10-4 1.035 x10-4
Table 4. Oxygen consummed during the mackinawite oxidation.
Short chains can easily undergo rearrangement in structures with close packing, reducing
the mobility of the oxidant species. As the chains increase in size, it become more permeable,
and the bulk solid oxidize faster.
The increase in polysulfide chains occurs through an oxidation process, catalyzed by proton,
according to equation 10. Thus, the higher pH indicate the presence of long chains of
polysulfide, with higher oxidant diffusion capacity. The lower H+ concentration during the
inhibition phase produced by unmodified mackinawite (Fig. 16b and Fig. 17) in comparison
with modified mackinawite, indicates its lower oxidation resistence.

2−
≡Sm + 1
2
O2 + 2H+ → ≡ S n2 − + H2O (10)

The end of the inhibition phase is the collapse of the surface layer of polysulfides, which
facilitates the diffusion of oxygen, resulting in fast oxidation of the material (phase b). As
cysteine does not polymerize, its presence on the modified mackinawite surface should result
in small polysulfides chains. This promotes the increased of the oxidation resistance observed.
The mechanism of oxidation of iron sulfides (II) under acidic conditions involves the
oxidation of Fe (II) to Fe (III). Researchers have proposed that iron (III) acts as the preferred
oxidizing agent for sulfur, ie, the process of electron transfer from sulfur to iron (III) is easier
in comparison to transfer to the oxygen (Chiriţă and Descostes, 2006; Burton et al, 2009;
Kamei and Ohmoto, 2000; Bourdoiseau et al, 2008).
In this work, the FeS consumes less oxygen than the FeS-Cys. To explain the fact that FeS
present higher oxidation and lower oxygen consumption, we propose that the polysulfide
chains in this material grow through oxidation by Fe (III) (equation 11).

2−
≡ Sm + Fe3+ → ≡ S n2 − + Fe2+ (11)

This reaction is minimized in the system FeS-Cys, since part of the iron released is bound to
cysteine through the formation of complexes Fe(Cys)+. Thus, a larger amount of oxygen is
consumed during the surface oxidation of modified mackinawite.
The concentration of protons as function of time is shown in Fig. 17. The concentration of
[H+] is a result of several reactions that occur in suspension. Therefore, this parameter can
only be used as a comparison between the two systems, since the experiments were
executed under same conditions, being the cysteine the unique difference. The observations
were supported by other analytical techniques results, such as the XRPD pattern.
The surface oxidation of sulfide groups (≡Sm2-) (equation 8) produces protons, while the
oxidation of iron sulfides and oxidation of the polysulfide groups (≡Sn2-) (equations 9 and
10), consume protons.
Analyzing the concentration of [H+] in the oxidation process was observed that FeS-Cys
releases more [H+] than FeS, attributed the formation of sulfide groups (≡Sm2-) and the
limited growth of polysulfide chains. This supports the assumption that the oxidation
330 Sediment Transport

resistance is due of the small polysulfide chains, which can rearrange, keeping the surface
layer more impermeable to oxidation for longer time.

-6
2.5x10
FeS
-6
H (mmol/l) 2.0x10 FeS-Cys
o
pH 6, 25 C
-6
1.5x10

-6
1.0x10
+

-7
5.0x10

0.0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
Time (h)
Fig. 17. [H+] concentration during the mackinawite oxidation process (long time), starting
after pH maximum.
Mackinawite oxidation resulted in the formation of lepidocrocite and elemental sulfur, as
early discussed for experiments of short time. This is in agreement with the features of the
crystal structure of mackinawita since the lepidocrocite structure consists of layers of
octahedra of iron oxide (III) joined by hydrogen bonding to hydroxyls. This also is in
agreement with the oxidation product of the abiotic FeS (Burton et al, 2009).
After 24 hours, both mackinawites (FeS and FeS-Cys) had advanced oxidation states. The
XRPD pattern of the solids before (1 and 3) and after (2 and 4) oxidation are shown in the
figure 18.

S (1) FeS original

(2) FeS oxidized
(3) FeS-Cys original
S (4) FeS-Cys oxidized
S
LS S L
L L
(2)
M M
M
L S L (1)
S L
L
(4)
M M M M
(3)
10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70
2θ
Fig. 18. XRPD pattern of the solids after 24h of oxidation process.
Modification of Mackinawite with L-Cysteine:
Synthesis, Characterization, and Implications to Mercury Immobilization in Sediment 331

It is clear that the absence of the broad-band 16.5o (2θ) is characteristic of disordered
mackinawite. The peaks of lepidocrocite formed by oxidation of FeS-Cys were better defined
than for FeS, characteristic of higher crystallinity. This suggests that cysteine can control the
microstructure during the formation of lepidocrocite.

3.5 Mercury uptake capacity

The mercury uptake experiments were conducted using 50 ml glass centrifuge tubes. A 5
mmol/l stock solution was prepared by dissolving of HgCl2 (99.9995%, Alfa Aesar) in 32
mmol/l HNO3 solution (trace metal grade, concentrate) in high pure water (HPLC grade). A
Hg(II) 1 mmol/l solution was prepared by dilution of the stock solution, and purged with
N2 ultra high pure during 30 minutes; then, 0.4 g/l of the mackinawite was added into the
solution, and magnetic stirred by a PTFE coated stirrer bar during 1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 60, and 90
minutes. After the desired time, the samples were filtered using a Whatmann seringe filter
0.45μm, being completed within 30 seconds after sampling. The 10 ml sample was preserved
with addition of 20 μl of HNO3 solution (trace metal grade, concentrate). The mercury
content was determined using cold vapor method CVAAS (mercury Instruments, Lab
Analyzer 254) based on EPA method # 7470 A.
Experiments to determine the mercury sequestration capacity of the studied mackinawites
was carried through, using solution of HgCl2 dissolved in high pure water. Results showed
that unmodified and modified mackinawite is capable to uptake 99.99% and 99.94%,
respectively, of mercury in solution within 30 minutes of contact (Fig. 19). It means that the
modification with L-cysteine does not showed sensible influence on the mercury uptake;
approximately 490 mg Hg/g mackinawite in medium concentration of 1mmol/l Hg (II) was
observed, being an excellent material for mercury sequestration.

500
Hg(II) Uptake (mg/g)

400

300
FeS
200 FeS-Cys
C0= 1mmol/l - pH 5.6
100

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
Time (min)
Fig. 19. Mercury uptake by unmodified (FeS) and modified (FeS-Cys) mackinawite.

4. Implications to mercury immobilization in contaminated sediment

The use of mackinawite as a reactive material in an active barrier system (ABS) associated
with in-situ capping (ISC) will improve the mercury uptake in a contaminated sediment,
since mercury does not have a large chemical affinity to silicate-based materials commonly
used in ISC.
332 Sediment Transport

In spite of its excellent capability to immobilize mercury, one limitation characteristic to use
of the mackinawite in ISC is due it easily be oxidized when applied as a reactive material to
natural sediments. The modification of mackinawite, using the amino acid L-cysteine,
increases its oxidation resistance, which can make possible the mackinawite aplication as
ISC reactive material. The time to build a capping using mackinawite needs to be evaluated,
for determine if the increase in the mackinawite oxidation resistance by cysteine is enough
to its use.
Results from this study have shown that the modification of mackinawite occured using a
simple experimental procedure, the efficiency of L-cysteine in retarding the mackinawite
oxidation was 55%, and has a high mercury uptake capability, without sensible difference in
comparison to the unmodified mackinawite. These are important features and therefore,
modified mackinawite should be tested as a reactive capping material under laboratory
conditions using mercury contaminated field sediments.

5. Acknowledgements
This project was funded by a grant (06HQGR0088) from the United States Department of
Interior through the Louisiana Water Resources Research Institute. Dr. Chaves was
supported by a Chevron postdoctoral fellowship through the College of Engineering at LSU.
Dr. Chaves and Dr. Buchler are grateful to Ministry of Education of Brazil, CNPq /CAPES/
PNPD Project 2016/2008.

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