A 2D/3D hydrodynamic and sediment transport model for the Yangtze Estuary, China

Based on the Delft3D-FLOW, a 2D/3D hydrodynamic and sediment transport model was set up for the region of Yangtze Estuary, China. After a series of model verifications, which showed that the model is capable to reproduce the hydrodynamic and sediment transport processes in the region, it is applied to study the storm surge problem and morphological evolution of the Jiuduansha Shoals. It is concluded that the effects of remote wind and waves should be considered to obtain accurate results for storm surges. For reproducing the morphological changes the transport of cohesive as well as the non-cohesive fraction of sediment needs to be taken into account. The model can be considered as a basic tool for managing and studying the Yangtze Estuary.