Mass Transport Velocity in Mud Layer Due to Progressive Waves

Abstract

The dynamics of soft mud layers due to waves is of great importance for sedimentation processes in approach channels and harbors. The mass transport in the mud layer is described both theoretically and experimentally. The theoretical model to estimate the mud mass transport is developed on the basis of the linear wave theory and of Newtonian fluid. The experiments are performed by using the mixture of kaolinite and water, which behaves like a Bingham fluid. The present experimental results show the nonlinearities of the mass transport in the mud layer and of the attenuation of the surface wave height, which are due to the relationship between shear stress and shear rate of the mud. These are discussed through the comparison with the results by the model. It is also found that the present model can be used to evaluate the mud mass transport by giving it a pertinent apparent viscosity of mud, which is estimated by the shear rate in the orbital motion.