A 2-D hydro-morphodynamic modelling approach for predicting suspended sediment propagation and related heavy metal contamination in floodplain: a sensitivity analysis

Abstract

Abstract. Fine sediments represent an important vector of pollutant diffusion in rivers. When deposited in floodplains and riverbeds they can be responsible for soil pollution. In this context, this paper proposes a hydro-morphodynamic modelling exercise aiming at predicting transport and diffusion of fine sediments and dissolved pollutants. The model is based upon the Telemac hydro-informatic system (dynamical coupling Telemac-2D-Sysiphe). As empirical and semi-empirical parameters need to be calibrated for such a modelling exercise, a sensitivity analysis is proposed. In parallel to the modelling exercise, an extensive hydrological/geochemical database has been set up during two flood events. The main sensitive parameters were found to be the hydraulic friction coefficient and the sediment particle settling velocity in water. Using the two monitored hydrological events as calibration and validation, it was found that the model is able to satisfyingly predict suspended sediment and dissolve pollutant transport in the river channel. In addition, a qualitative comparison between simulated sediment deposition in the floodplain and a soil contamination map shows that the preferential zones for deposition identified by the model are realistic.