Three-dimensional modeling of sediment transport in the Wuhan catchments of the Yangtze River

Abstract A three-dimensional flow-sediment model of the Wuhan portion of the Yangtze River was developed using the EFDC (Environmental Fluid Dynamic Code) in order to study the changing riverbed. The model was also calibrated and validated by daily measuring of the water surface elevation and using suspended sediment concentration data secured from June 1 to September 30, 2004. Based on this model, the mobile sediment on the riverbed was simulated for the high water period of the Yangtze River. The results indicate that erosion is the main issue, with maximum erosion (0.27m) occurring at the banks of Tian Xingzhou. In addition, according to a suspended sediment concentration analysis for the Han Kou Hydrologic Station section of the river, the concentration there increased from left bank to right bank.