Abstract

A hybrid numerical model is introduced for simulation of cohesive sediments concentration profiles in a surf zone. For this purpose, wave height reduction must be considered, due to muddy beds and wave breaking. Models, such as Sanford and Maa’s erosion model, Krone’s sedimentation model, Tajima’s wave breaking model and the visco-elastic–plastic rheological model, are used to investigate the interaction of wave and bed and to predict the concentration profile. A splitting algorithm has been used to split the three-dimensional advection–diffusion equation into a horizontal, two-dimensional equation, and a vertical, one-dimensional equation, due to different length scales. The one-dimensional equation is discretized over a non uniform grid, and, then solved implicitly using the QUICKEST scheme (third order in time and space). The two-dimensional equation is divided into two parts (advection and diffusion) and each part is separately solved at different time steps. A suitable mesh, regarding space and time intervals, is chosen for considering the stability of the present model. The computational domain extends from the shoreline to the deepwater zone. Finally, the results are analyzed and compared with experimental and field data and other models. Good agreement has been obtained with the data and other numerical models.