It is well known, even not always well accepted, that there is a real lack of knowledge on the mechanisms of sediment transport. The equations which are the core of the Computed Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models have been developed in the first half of 20th century and are still used on most models with some adaptation using ‘’black box’’ coefficients. For the purpose of acquiring better knowledge on the transport mechanisms, there is a need for reliable and efficient measurement tools to be used in the field, at real scale, allowing the measurement of data without disturbing the hydrodynamical and physical conditions in the environment. Nuclear techniques are the most useful and efficient ones.The CRP will identify and coordinate the development and improvement of nuclear techniques (radiotracers and nucleonic measurement systems) and the associated methodologies in order to improve their capabilities and the quality of data to be obtained from their use and finally to give to the scientific community the best possible tools to fill the gap of knowledge in the field. Guidelines for the use of the nuclear technologies with a special emphasis on safety and regulatory aspects will be also developed. The CRP will contribute to a larger utilization of nuclear techniques in MSs through the enhanced capabilities and availability of nuclear techniques.
The overall objective of the CRP is to facilitate further advancement and implementation of nuclear technologies in sediment transport studies for coastal engineering and harbour management. Specifically, targets to be addressed will include safety, cost, and availability of nuclear technologies, as well as knowledge transfer with a particular focus on developing Member States.
To develop/ improve methodologies and technologies for radiotracer experiments in laboratory and in the field
To develop/improve/validate methodologies based on nucleonic measurement systems
To produce reliable experimental data sets on sediment or pollutants transport
The following achievements have been made in the Coordinated Research Project (CRP) and can be summarized as follows:
- Experimental Achievements
Development of Hydrogamma and Hydrodrone systems for monitoring radiation in water bodies.
Creation of a protocol for measuring highly turbid suspensions of cohesive flocs.
Development of CT-based technology for measuring sediment transport in wave flumes.
- Mathematical Modelling Achievements
Application of hydrodynamic modelling to analyse circulation in the Hooghly estuary.
Coupling hydro-sediment models in the delta of the Mekong, including studies on scour erosion near bridge piers and toe scour at seawalls.
Implementation of Monte Carlo simulations for optimizing radio-activatable tracers.
- In Situ Measurement Achievements
Application of radiotracers in harbors.
Utilization of radiotracers in water treatment plants.
Proposal for the implementation of radio-activatable tracers in harbor environments.
Identification of natural tracers in sediment.
- Radiological Aspects
Evaluation of biota dose for particulate radiotracers.
Demonstration that historical biota doses from sediment studies have been negligible.
The results obtained from this Coordinated Research Project (CRP) are significant as they enhance our understanding of sediment transport effects in various water bodies, which are directly related to climate change. The findings illustrate the dynamics of sediment transport and provide end users with options for implementing remediation actions to address issues such as coastal erosion. Additionally, through the use of modelling techniques, we can evaluate the behaviour of sediment transport and anticipate future scenarios of sediment dynamics over the medium term.