Sedimentation rate and physical properties of bottom sediments in the Angara reservoirs under the cyclical conditions of the level regime

Abstract

Research subject. The article presents the results of a study of sedimentation rate and physical properties of bottom sediments in the Angara reservoirs under controlled level regimes. Materials and methods. The work was based on the materials of fieldwork carried out by the author on the Angara reservoirs in 1972–2017 and open-access literature sources. The physical properties and particle size distribution of bottom sediments were determined by the standard methods of engineering geology. Results. It was found that the controlled level regime determines the time cycles of sedimentation in reservoirs, sources of sediment-forming material, sedimentation rate and ambiguity of the physical properties of bottom sediments. Conclusions. During transgressions, sands, coarse aleurites and fine-aleurite silts accumulate in reservoirs most intensively; however, during regressions, coarse aleurites and aleurite-clayey silts are accumulated. During transgressions, all types of sediments are characterised by the highest sediment density, sediment skeleton density and absorption capacity, while coarse aleurites and fine-aleurite silts exhibit high natural humidity levels. In addition, coarse aleurites are characterised by a high porosity, while fine-aleurite and aleurite-clayey silts are characterised by a high content of organic matter. During regressions, the porosity of sands, fine-aleurite and aleurite-clayey silts increases, the content of organic matter in sands and coarse aleurites increases, and all types of sediments become more saturated with carbonates.