One-dimensional numerical modelling of turbidity currents: hydrodynamics and deposition

Abstract

Turbidity currents may play an important role on reservoir sedimentation as they are capable of transporting large quantities of fine sediments over long distances towards the dam. In this paper, a one-dimensional numerical model for the simulation of turbidity currents driven by non-cohesioneless uniform sediment is presented. The layer-averaged governing equations are solved numerically using a second-order total variation diminishing method of the Godunov-type. The HLLC approximate Riemann solver is used for the computation of numerical fluxes. The performance of the numerical model is verified against laboratory experiments performed for this study and with laboratory data from other authors. Close agreement is achieved in reproducing the mean current features and deposits.