Author(s): Katelyn Kirby; Mohammad Ghazizadeh; Abolghasem Pilechi And Julien Cousineau
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Cloud-based microplastic transport model particle accumulation zones hydrodynamic river modelling
Abstract: This study explores the sensitivity of microplastic behavior and accumulation zones in riverine environments under varying hydrodynamic conditions through a case study of a 160 km stretch of the Ottawa River, Canada. Using a coupled hydrodynamic model and cloud-based particle transport modelling, the work investigates how changes in the river hydrodynamic conditions influence the transport and distribution of microplastics. Key findings include the identification of nine accumulation zones, three of which remain consistent across scenarios while six exhibited variability, emphasizing the sensitivity of microplastic distribution to flow conditions in river systems. Future work will involve additional simulation runs to further elucidate the impacts of flow conditions, downstream water elevation, and particle characteristics on microplastic distribution.
Year: 2025