Numerical modeling of open channel flow with suspended canopy

Suspended canopies are common in aquatic environments. The mean flow velocity and Reynolds stress in the open channels with the suspended canopies were studied through laboratory experiments and numerical simulations. Numerical modeling was conducted with a modified version of the Delft3D-Flow model using a k-epsilon turbulence closure scheme. The resistance effects of the suspended canopy were modeled by adding a resistance term in the momentum equations of fluid flow, along with an addition production and dissipation term in the k and epsilon equations respectively. The numerical results for mean flow velocity and Reynolds stress agreed well with the experimental data of this study and the previously published data by Plew (2010.). The spatial evolution of the mixing layer near the bottom of the suspended canopy can be broadly separated into the diverging flow, developing, and fully developed zones. The thickness and density of the suspended canopy significantly influenced the flow characteristics. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.