In-situ database toolbox for short-term dispersion model validation in macro-tidal seas, application for 2D-model

Appropriate field data are required to check the reliability of hydrodynamic models simulating the dispersion of soluble substances in the marine environment. This study deals with the collection of physical measurements and soluble tracer data intended specifically for this kind of validation.The intensity of currents as well as the complexity of topography and tides around the Cap de La Hague in the centre of the English Channel make it one of the most difficult areas to represent in terms of hydrodynamics and dispersion. Controlled releases of tritium—in the form of HTO—are carried out in this area by the AREVA-NC plant, providing an excellent soluble tracer. A total of 14,493 measurements were acquired to track dispersion in the hours and days following a release. These data, supplementing previously gathered data and physical measurements (bathymetry, water-surface levels, Eulerian and Lagrangian current studies) allow us to test dispersion models from the hour following release to periods of several years which are not accessible with dye experiments. The dispersion characteristics are described and methods are proposed for comparing models against measurements.An application is proposed for a 2 dimensions high-resolution numerical model. It shows how an extensive dataset can be used to build, calibrate and validate several aspects of the model in a highly dynamic and macrotidal area: tidal cycle timing, tidal amplitude, fixed-point current data, hodographs.This study presents results concerning the model's ability to reproduce residual Lagrangian currents, along with a comparison between simulation and high-frequency measurements of tracer dispersion.All physical and tracer data are available at 〈http://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.762253〉. This tool for validation of models in macro-tidal seas is intended to be an open and evolving resource, which could provide a benchmark for dispersion-model validation.

Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Tritium – in the form of HTO – is used as tracer for validation of dispersion models.
► In-situ database represents 14,493 tracer measurements and physical recordings.
► High frequency model/measurement comparison methods are proposed.
► Model validation parameters, domain applicability and precision are described.
► Database provided could be used as a benchmark for dispersion model validation.