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Multigrain morphodynamic simulations of dynamic river widenings
The wide range of restoration measures in channelized, morphologically degraded rivers includes dynamic river widening. This method is based on the reactivation of bank erosion, sediment redistribution, and channel shifting processes within certain spatial limitations. The goal is to restore the morphodynamic processes typical for river-floodplain systems and to increase the diversity of aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
Keywords: river restoration, numerical simulations, river widening, river engineering, hydraulic engineering
Dynamic river widening is used as a local restoration measure in affected watercourses. By removing the fixed bank protection along a particular reach, lateral erosion processes and dynamic channel migration are initiated within a limited perimeter. However, the temporal and spatial development of bank erosion in the widening depends on numerous parameters, the effects and interactions of which are still insufficiently understood.
Start date: 22.09.2025
Project language: English or German
No specific programming skills are required. However, the lecture “River Morphodynamic Modellings” is mandatory.
Dynamic river widening is used as a local restoration measure in affected watercourses. By removing the fixed bank protection along a particular reach, lateral erosion processes and dynamic channel migration are initiated within a limited perimeter. However, the temporal and spatial development of bank erosion in the widening depends on numerous parameters, the effects and interactions of which are still insufficiently understood.
Start date: 22.09.2025 Project language: English or German
No specific programming skills are required. However, the lecture “River Morphodynamic Modellings” is mandatory.
The goal of this thesis is to investigate the morphodynamic processes within river widenings in relation to different floodplain offset heights and length of the widening. The 2D morphodynamic simulations will be performed with the software BASEMENT and the model will be calibrated and validated with experimental data that will be provided from large-scale laboratory experiments at VAW. Comparison to experimental data has the advantage of clearly defined boundary conditions and topographic measurements of high temporal resolution.
The goal of this thesis is to investigate the morphodynamic processes within river widenings in relation to different floodplain offset heights and length of the widening. The 2D morphodynamic simulations will be performed with the software BASEMENT and the model will be calibrated and validated with experimental data that will be provided from large-scale laboratory experiments at VAW. Comparison to experimental data has the advantage of clearly defined boundary conditions and topographic measurements of high temporal resolution.
For further information please contact Paul Demuth (demuth@vaw.baug.ethz.ch)
For further information please contact Paul Demuth (demuth@vaw.baug.ethz.ch)
