Discrete Element Modelling of Floating Debris

A new numerical modelling tool for understanding the propagation and impacts of floating debris
PhD research project: Samantha Mahaffey

The project will develop a new numerical tool to predict the propagation and impact of a variety of floating debris during intense flooding. We will apply the new model to a number of case studies sought through extensive field and lab work. This will enable the development of a reliable tool which is applicable to a variety of flood events including the complex flow dynamics associated with flooding from intense rainfall (FFIR).

Possible applications include:

    • Estimating the effect of floating debris on flood risk
    • Understanding the interaction of floating debris with hydraulic structures
    • Estimating blockage and hydraulic pressures at structures
    • Evaluating the stability of hydraulic structures under flood conditions
    • Predicting and understanding flow rerouting due to debris blockage

Floating debris transported in by floods can cause excessive damages and exacerbate flood risks. However floating debris is a flood processes which is not widely understood. Field work will be carried out in order to understand the complex processes associated with floating debris interaction and provide data sets to support model development.

The new modelling tool will incorporate a Hydrodynamic flow solver with a Discrete Element scheme to enable the prediction of realistic debris interactions. The shock capturing hydrodynamic scheme will enable the models application to flooding from intense rainfall.

The project forms part of the wider NERC funded consortium project: Susceptibility of Catchments to Intense Rainfall and Flooding (SINATRA).