2D numerical modeling of intense bedload-transport processes at confluences of mountain rivers and steep tributaries

Johannes Holzner (), Théo St. Pierre Ostrander (), Andrea Andreoli (), Bruno Mazzorana (), Francesco Comiti () and Bernhard Gems ()
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Johannes Holzner: Free University of Bozen-Bolzano
Théo St. Pierre Ostrander: University of Innsbruck
Andrea Andreoli: Free University of Bozen-Bolzano
Bruno Mazzorana: Universidad Austral de Chile
Francesco Comiti: Free University of Bozen-Bolzano
Bernhard Gems: University of Innsbruck

Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, 2024, vol. 120, issue 3, No 4, 2255-2281

Abstract: Abstract The presented work deals with the numerical modeling of intense bedload-transport processes at confluences of mountain rivers and steep tributaries. Steep tributaries are characterized by having high transport capacities which supply large amounts of sediments to the confluence zone, where due to the sudden change in slope and the local hydraulic conditions, intense deposition can occur. The objectives of this study are to understand the potential applications and limitations of 2D numerical simulations for modeling these processes. The calibration of the applied 2D numerical model (BASEMENT, Basic Simulation Environment, v2.8) is based on comparing high-density point clouds of the confluence morphology at the end of flume experimental runs with numerical results. The calibrated numerical model is then used to test different discharge ratios and to investigate depositional patterns and mechanisms. The results show that key morphological features such as the confluence fan, the bank-attached bar and the scour hole can be accurately reproduced, showing that 2D numerical simulations are a valuable tool for modeling the complex interactions between morphodynamics and hydraulics at river confluences. Additionally, it is shown that the confluence morphology of steep tributaries and mountain rivers is strongly influenced by the sediment concentration in the tributary channel and the discharge in the main channel.

Keywords: Sediment transport; River confluences; Mountain rivers; Tributaries; Numerical modeling; Basement (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s11069-023-06212-6

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