Author(s): Maelys Le Mouel; Abdelkader Hammouti; Damien Pham Van Bang

Linked Author(s): Abdelkader Hammouti, Damien Pham Van Bang

Keywords: 3D numerical modeling hydrodynamic St. Lawrence fluvial estuary tidal junction secondary flows tidal current inversion

Abstract: This study presents a numerical investigation into the three-dimensional flow dynamics in the St. Lawrence Fluvial Estuary (SLFE), focusing on the interactions at a tidal junction. The research employs a state-of-the-art 3D numerical model, TELEMAC, to capture the complex hydrodynamic behaviors in this vital freshwater resource. The model was validated with high-resolution field and numerical data, ensuring its reliability for simulating seasonal variations in circulation patterns. It solves the Navier-Stokes equations to accurately represent turbulent flows. The study investigates the impact of vertical velocity components and hysteresis effects on flow dynamics, emphasizing the importance of advanced modeling techniques in understanding estuarine systems with complex geometry. Results reveal significant spatio-temporal variations in flow patterns and highlight the critical role of 3D modeling during transitional tidal states, particularly the presence of opposing currents and vortices. These findings provide insight for future research on particle transport (micro/nanoplastics, sediment), pollution, and the impacts of climate change.

DOI:

Year: 2025