Investigation of key parameters for 3-D dredging plume model validation

This paper presents a 3-D dredging plume model, based on the MIKE3 software package, set up to investigate parameters which affect model performances. As a result of lack of site data for the public domain using, the model scenarios are designed artificially for sensitive runs to identify the key parameters affecting plume behaviours. The factors include dredging spill rates using different dredging methods and equipment and sediment settling velocities. The influence of wave and wind effects combined with tidal forcing on the sediment re-suspended rates and the advection/dispersion scales are also assessed.