Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIV
Written by Adrian ROȘU, Mădălin CRISTEA, Bogdan ROȘU, Maxim ARSENI, Mihai Ștefan PETREA, Cătălina ITICESCU, Puiu-Lucian GEORGESCU, Silvia DRĂGAN
This study presents an analysis of suspended sediment concentration and granulometric distribution along the Sulina branch of the Danube River, based on data collected using the AQUASCAT 1000S acoustic backscatter system. Measurements were conducted at six monitoring stations near or between the localities of Sulina, Gorgova, Crișan, Maliuc, Partizani, and an intermediate station between Sulina and Crișan. The AQUASCAT 1000S was employed to gather high-resolution acoustic data using its four frequency channels, ranging from kilohertz to megahertz, allowing for simultaneous observation of both fine and coarse sediment fractions. Data processing involved comparative analyses using different combinations of acoustic channels to evaluate their effectiveness in characterizing sediment concentration and size distribution across diverse hydrological and morphological conditions along the branch. Results reveal spatial variability in suspended sediment characteristics, influenced by local hydrodynamics and proximity to tributaries, human settlements, and natural channels. The study highlights the advantages and limitations of multi-frequency acoustic techniques in riverine sediment monitoring and contributes to the development of improved methodologies for sediment characterization in deltaic environments.
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