Projects

Introduction

Understanding the governing dynamical processes is key to developing reliable salt intrusion models and optimizing mitigation measures. This project will use CFD and field data to provide for the first-time parameterizations of NHS physics in large-scale 3D salt intrusion models (project 3 and 4) and for designing original and efficient interventions. Additionally, it will provide datasets for benchmarking of large-scale numerical simulations (project 3) and of natural mitigation processes (project 6).

Project description

The governing hydrodynamic processes of salt wedges vary greatly and interact strongly across both spatial and temporal scales from the small-scale turbulent mixing to large-scale processes at the mouth of the estuary. In terms of modelling, it is impossible to resolve all of these processes accurately, simultaneously for real systems. However, these models are essential for the design and planning of efficient mitigation measures to avoid unnecessary investments, quickly running into the millions of euros. The scientific challenge of this project is to determine the interplay across the large range of scales. Hence, there will be particular emphasis on the understanding and parameterising the unresolved processes for the improvement of fast-running hydrostatic models in collaboration with project 3 and design of mitigation measures with project 5.

Work packages and research questions

To address the knowledge gaps, a comprehensive approach will be used consisting of high-resolution numerical simulations (WP2.1 and WP2.2) and field studies (WP2.3).

Project deliverables

• Parametrization of the effects of NHS physics (WP2.1, 2.2, 2.3)
• Validated mixing models for a set of (natural) mitigation measures for application in DFlow (WP2.2)
• A well-defined dataset (velocity, salinity, statistical correlations) from experiments and simulations for comparison with Deltares lock-exchange experiments and simulations (WP2.1 and 2.2)
• Field data sets for model validation and further analysis in WP3.1 (WP2.3)