Application of Solent Hydrodynamics Model to study Dispesion of Oyster Larvae, E. coli and Plastic Waste
A three-dimensional hydrodynamic (HD) model of The Solent has been constructed using the open-source Telemac code [TELEMAC, 2024]. The 3D model extends from Bognor Regis in the east to Bournemouth in the west and spans the waters around the Isle of Wight.
Simulation mesh
Tidal Model
The tidally-driven oceanography in the area depicts a complex water circulation system, displaying various levels of density stratification and atmosphere-water heat exchange throughout the year. For the 3D model, a non-hydrostatic approach is used to explicitly solve for vertical currents. Freshwater inputs from the main river sources were included to account for salinity and temperature differences that can act as an important driving force for fluid movement.
River discharge locations
Validation
Validation of the model against observed hydrographic data (water levels and currents), at locations across the area, used data lifted from the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO) Admiralty Total Tide (ATT) package. The model correctly simulates tide propagation over The Solent region, and its 3D approach reasonably describes flow currents in terms of magnitude and direction. Model predictions generally satisfy specific calibration/validation requirements for hydrodynamic and discharge modelling
Model Validation
Application
The model provides general insight into the spatial and temporal variations in the flow environment in The Solent. Utilising Python scripts developed by MTS CFD it offers a suitable basis for assessing near-field and far-field dispersion effects of particulate matter such as oyster larvae, Escherichia coli (E. coli), nutrients and plastic waste.
Simulation of the release of oyster larvae.
Simulation of E. coli following sewage release
Simulation of plastic waste release