Hydrodynamics in the pits of Borssele and Hansweert : data-analysis and Delft3D-FM modeling

The study provides a basis for evaluation of the morphological impacts of the dredged sediment disposal strategy and quantification of the expected dredging volumes. The larger framework of this study encompasses an investigation of the transport pathways of sediment in the deep pits of the Western Scheldt. A major question thus relates to the potential impact of the observed and modeled secondary flow on the sediment transports. Earlier modeling studies showed that 2D models were not able to predict the transport of deposited sediment from the pits (Deltares, 2018). The focus of the current study is thus on 3D flow patterns, whereas future studies will focus on 3D sediment transports.