SEDflume

Quantify your site’s sediment mobility with SEDflume

The System

SEDflume is a tool to determine erosion rates of bedded sediment. SEDflume addresses deficiencies in the analytical or empirical characterization of cohesive sediment erosion rates by providing direct measurements. SEDflume studies produce measurements of erosion rates, derived critical shear stresses for erosion, and measurements of grain size distribution and bulk densities at multiple depth intervals in a sample.

How It Works

The SEDflume consists of a narrow channel 2 cm thick and 10 cm wide that directs constant rates of water over the sediment surface. When the applied force due to the flow results in sediment erosion, the core is extruded to maintain a consistent surface elevation. After 10 minutes, the amount of extrusion is recorded and the flowrate is increased. Applied shear stresses range from 0.1 to 12.8 pascals (Pa).

Schematic of SEDflume instrument, Adapted from McNeil 1996

Capabilities

Erosion and critical shear stress profiles with depth.
Erosion and critical shear stress measurements at high shear stresses (greater than 10 Pa).
Direct quantification of particle size distribution, density, and loss on ignition for maximum data correlation.

Applications

Direct determination of erosion potential of cohesive and noncohesive sediments.
Unique data for use in engineering and environmental studies of sediment stability.
Quantitative evaluation of capping material effectiveness.
Evaluation of dredge material stability.

Sheer Stress and Erosion

For a robust description of the sediment bed, critical shear stress and erosion rates can be correlated with measurements of particle size distribution, bulk density, or other geotechnical parameters. Results can be used to compare disparate areas and depths within the system to determine more or less erodible areas relative to a site average.

In the Field

SEDflume samples are collected using a push core to limit sediment disturbance. Samples are collected, cataloged, and securely stored for transport to Integral’s SEDflume laboratory in Santa Cruz, California, or the mobile SEDflume lab for onsite analysis.

For SEDflume sample collection, a push core is inserted into the sediment bed with minimal disturbance and recovers up to 45 cm of sediment.
Sample SEDflume cores collected in the field are packaged watertight for transport.
Samples are analyzed at Integral's SEDflume laboratory shown in Santa Cruz or can be handled using the mobile SEDflume laboratory in the photo above.

Results

Below are a few examples of analytical results that can be derived from the SEDflume tool. The first example shows a sample SEDflume core and its measured erosion rates. The second figure shows sediment particle size distribution (PSD) relative to depth. PSD is measured using laser diffraction.

Examples above show SEDflume core and erosion rates; and particle size distribution with depth

SEDflume Projects

SEDflume has been used to support site assessments across the globe. Use of SEDflume can help quantify the sediment mobility at any site where cohesive sediment is present.

Integral staff have conducted SEDflume studies throughout coastal, estuarine, and riverine systems in the U.S. and Canada. A broad client base including academia, commercial enterprises, and government agencies continues to leverage Integral’s SEDflume laboratory to support sediment fate and transport studies and develop site-specific criteria for remedial design.

Selected Projects

BERRY'S CREEK, NJ

The remedial investigation and feasibility study of the Berry’s Creek Study Area utilized SEDflume to quantify erodibility parameters of different morphologic types throughout the site. Data from the SEDflume studies supported the development and application of numerical models of sediment fate and transport.

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO BAY

Intertidal flats provide important, and sometimes critical, habitats for benthic communities, fish, birds, and mammals in San Francisco Bay. However, they can act as reservoirs for sediment-bound contaminants from both historical and ongoing sources. The dual role of intertidal flats in critical habitat and as a potential reservoir for contamination may cause unacceptable ecosystem and human health risks. Development of a deeper understanding of the processes governing the morphology and character of the intertidal flats through the use of SEDflume has been instrumental to the effective restoration of habitat and reduction of potential ecosystem and human health risks.

For more information about Integral Consulting and SEDflume, please contact:

Craig A. Jones, Ph.D.

Samuel McWilliams, E.I.T.

Sources

Content

San Francisco Bay Project

Integral Consulting Inc.

Jones, C.A., and B.E. Jaffe. 2013. Influence of history and environment on the sediment dynamics of intertidal flats. Marine Geology, 345:, 294-303.

Oceans

Oceans, coasts, and coastal estuaries provide critical economic, environmental, and social services for our clients. We bring multidisciplinary expertise to develop practical solutions for our clients’ needs, from best practices in forecasting and monitoring, to efficient and effective permitting, to supporting sustainable development in challenging aquatic environments. Learn more about Integral’s SEDFlume services and more.