The Experience in Drone Use to Evaluate the Coefficients of Turbulent Diffusion in Small Water Bodies

Abstract

Small lakes and reservoirs located in the zone of active technogenesis are subject to the risk of various emergency situations. The present-day computer technologies, including hydrodynamic computation modules, can be used to effectively estimate and forecast their consequences with the aim to minimize the adverse effect. These models require evaluating the coefficients of horizontal diffusion. The theoretical analysis of such processes is very difficult because of their specifics. Studies aimed at evaluating these coefficients in Russia and other countries are very few, even under the assumption of their homogeneity and isotropy. The modern measurement technologies involving the use of pilotless vehicles, make such studies much simpler. The article discusses the significance of such studies, the technology of their performance, and the results obtained for the Verkhne-Zyryansk Reservoir. A field experiment with the use of eight floats yielded an average estimate of the coefficient of horizontal turbulent diffusion equal to 0.012 m2/s. The specific features of the obtained results are discussed.